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I just said, you know, this is a great track but this…

“I just said, you know, this is a great track but this lyric, I don't believe it. It sounds like I'm trying to say something, instead of it naturally coming out of me, like I was saying something that I already knew. Anyway, I can't remember what it was. And either I threw it all out or I threw 90…” quote by Paul Simon
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“I just said, you know, this is a great track but this lyric, I don't believe it. It sounds like I'm trying to say something, instead of it naturally coming out of me, like I was saying something that I already knew. Anyway, I can't remember what it was. And either I threw it all out or I threw 90 percent of it out, and kept a line or two. That's happened a couple of times to me. Not too often, but a couple of times. Very aggravating when it does happen.”

Paul Simon

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker feels frustration when forced lyrics feel artificial rather than authentic, leading to discarding much of the work.

In simple terms: Forced lyrics feel fake, causing frustration.

Key Takeaway

Seek authenticity in songwriting.

Themes

creativity authenticity frustration

Mood

annoyed reflective

Type

advice personal anecdote

When to use this quote

  • songwriting sessions
  • creative blocks
  • editing drafts
  • collaborative writing

Key Concepts

artistic integrity self‑expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you capture genuine feeling without overthinking?
  • What techniques help preserve spontaneity?
A Different Perspective

Not all forced lines are bad; sometimes editing improves clarity.

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