Gumboots
Simon And Garfunkel · Other Songs - Simon And Garfunkel
and Lulu Masilela)
I was having this discussion
In a taxi heading downtown
Rearranging my position
On this friend of mine who had
A little bit of a breakdown
I said breakdowns come
And breakdowns go
So what are you going to do about it
That's what I'd like to know
You don't feel you could love me
But I feel you could
It was in the early morning hours
When I fell into a phone call
Believing I had supernatural powers
I slammed into a brick wall
I said hey, is this my problem?
Is this my fault?
If that's the way it's going to be
I'm going to call the whole thing to a halt
You don't feel you could love me
But I feel you could
You don't feel you could love me
But I feel you could
I was walking down the street
When I thought I heard this voice say
Say, ain't we walking down the same street together
On the very same day
I said hey Senorita that's astute
I said why don't we get together
And call ourselves an institute
You don't feel you could love me
But I feel you could
You don't feel you could love me
But I feel you could
Gumboots
Gumboots stands as a distinctive song in Simon and Garfunkel's discography, showcasing the duo's ability to blend folk sensibilities with rhythmic experimentation. The track draws its title and thematic inspiration from the traditional South African footwear, reflecting the artists' interest in global cultural elements beyond their American folk roots. Musically, the song features a driving percussion line that mimics the stomping rhythm associated with the boots, creating an infectious energy that contrasts with the pair's more melancholic ballads. This recording highlights their collaborative songwriting process and willingness to explore unconventional subjects within their established sound. As part of their broader body of work, Gumboots demonstrates the versatility that defined their career, offering listeners a moment of upbeat engagement amidst a catalogue known for its introspective depth and acoustic precision.