Paul Simon Reflects On Mortality As He Continues To Battle Various Health Issues

Paul Simon established himself as a prominent songwriter through his collaborations with Art Garfunkel, the two of them making up Simon & Garfunkel. In recent years the singer has been battling a variety of health challenges, the latest being sudden hearing loss during the production of his latest album, Seven Psalms.

Recently, during the 40th anniversary of his 1986 album Graceland, Simon candidly disclosed that he is not hopeful about recuperating from his medical problems.

Paul Simon’s feelings about mortality influenced his recent work, Seven Psalms

While discussing the deaths of his colleagues Jeff Beck and Gordon Lightfoot earlier in the year, he mentioned that most people in his generation were on the brink of mortality. “It’s just the age we’re at,” Simon explained. “My generation’s time is up.”

Being an octogenarian, Simon’s view on life has profoundly shaped Seven Psalms. While the album’s sound carries a spiritual resonance, its themes extend beyond religion, exploring concepts such as life and mortality. These topics hold personal significance for Simon as he confronts the passage of time and the ever-present reality of his time on Earth being finite.

He is still committed to making music despite his health challenges

During an interview with MOJO regarding the album, Simon openly shared that his recent health challenges have affected his rehearsing and chances of returning to live performances. “I haven’t figured out how to perform with the hearing loss,” he said. “I’ve tried to rehearse with the guys in my touring band, to see if I could manage it. I can’t so far. This is at least an outlet for thinking musically.”

He emphasized that his love for music is as powerful as it has ever been. “I love making music, my voice is still strong, and my band is a tight, extraordinary group of gifted musicians,” Simon added. “I think about music constantly. I am very grateful for a fulfilling career and, of course, most of all, to the audiences who heard something in the music that touched their hearts.”