The Simplest Man

An Essay About Being Simple

by Chris Bowdler

9th Grade English

9/29/2011

Can you think of a song that is a clear, intelligible, and an ingenious story of life? When I hear these words I think about the song “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. This song has a slightly different meaning from the title. The song can also be related to a play called, “A Raisin in the Sun,” and one specific character in that play by the name of Travis.

When Lynyrd Skynyrd wrote the song “Simple Man” what were they thinking about? To me, “Simple Man” is a song about talking what you are given. Beggars can’t be choosers, so be thankful for what you do have, not wishing for something you don’t, because then you will spend all of your time wishing, not chasing your dreams. Life is a great thing, so try your hardest to make the most of everything you’re given. Try to be happy as often as you can. You can have very little to live for, and still be very happy. Whenever something comes your way look at it as positively as is humanly possible.  There is a line in the chorus of the song “Simple Man” it goes you should always be proud of yourself for who you are. You are not unavailing; everyone has a purpose you just have to find yours. You have to make the most of everything that you are given, and don’t be afraid to live life to the fullest, that is what I think Lynyrd Skynyrd is trying to say in their song “Simple Man.”

When I listen to “Simple Man” I think of the character Travis from “A Raisin in the Sun.” He is very young at heart, he has very simple needs, and he doesn’t ask for much, he just gives a lot back. He gets very happy over small things, a smile, a joke or just a hug from his mum. There is a line in “Simple Man” “Won’t you do this for me, son, if you can,” I think that this line can be related to Travis. Travis loves his mother with all his heart, and he would do anything to make her happy. He’s always happy no matter what happens, and he always wants to spread that happiness.  He knows that his family is underprivileged but he doesn’t let that slow him down. He can’t stay mad for at someone for very long. When he got in an argument with his mum he was giving her a hug almost immediately afterward. Travis is a remarkable, simple young man, with a large and loving heart.  

“Simple Man” is a song that is about making the most of the joys of life. There are not many songs that have the same love for life that you feel in “Simple Man”. I cannot think of a song has as positive a meaning as “Simple Man” there is not a negative line in the whole song. When I listen to this song I just have a positive, warm feeling sweep over me, and it just makes me love this song.