The Sounds Of Silence
Our problems seem very present and new but sometimes the answers can speak to us from older works of art.
Today I was going to discuss a familiar theme; the way social media and online distraction is affecting our ability to relate to each in a real, human ways. I’ve been wondering to what extent this had been a problem in other stages of human existence and how we might create art that helps us better address the challenges we now face.
Then, while looking for examples to reference, I stumbled upon a live performance, by Simon & Garfunkel, of their classic song, The Sounds Of Silence. Their short, masterful performance better addressed the issue than my 600-odd words ever could. You know the song, so take some time to find a version of it online. Their lyrics, presented in a plain and simple way, address our problem so directly.
And in the naked light I saw
Ten thousand people, maybe more
People talking without speaking
People hearing without listening
People writing songs that voices never share
