About the song
Harry Chapin, a folk singer renowned for his storytelling abilities and socially conscious lyrics, penned “Cats in the Cradle” as a poignant reflection on the complexities of fatherhood and the fleeting nature of time. This heartfelt ballad, released in 1974, became a hit single and a lasting tribute to the importance of family and the enduring power of human connection.
With his distinctive raspy voice and intimate delivery, Chapin paints a vivid picture of a father’s relationship with his son. The song explores the themes of time, regret, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Through introspective lyrics and Chapin’s emotive vocals, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
The opening lines, “My son, he said, dad, can you spare some time to talk?” set the stage for a song that explores the challenges of fatherhood and the importance of spending quality time with loved ones. Chapin recounts the busy life of a working father, constantly preoccupied with his career and responsibilities. The lyrics evoke a sense of regret and longing, as the father realizes the missed opportunities to connect with his son.
Throughout the song, Chapin uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate the father-son relationship. He references the “busy years” when he was focused on his career and the “empty chairs” at the dinner table when his son was away. The lyrics convey a sense of loss and longing, while also highlighting the importance of family and the enduring power of human connection.
“Cats in the Cradle” is more than just a poignant ballad; it is a timeless reflection on the human condition and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones. Chapin’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of family, connection, and the fleeting nature of time. This enduring classic continues to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder that the most precious things in life are often the simplest.
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Lyrics
My child arrived just the other day
He came to the world in the usual way
But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away
And he was talking ‘fore I knew it, and as he grew
He’d say “I’m gonna be like you, dad”
“You know I’m gonna be like you”
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, dad?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then
You know we’ll have a good time then
My son turned ten just the other day
He said, thanks for the ball, dad, come on let’s play
Can you teach me to throw, I said-a, not today
I got a lot to do, he said, that’s okay
And he, he walked away, but his smile never dimmed
It said, I’m gonna be like him, yeah
You know I’m gonna be like him
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, dad?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then
You know we’ll have a good time then
Well, he came from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
Son, I’m proud of you, can you sit for a while?
He shook his head, and they said with a smile
What I’d really like, dad, is to borrow the car keys
See you later, can I have them please?
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, son?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then, dad
You know we’ll have a good time then
I’ve long since retired, my son’s moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said, I’d like to see you if you don’t mind
He said, I’d love to, dad, if I can find the time
You see, my new job’s a hassle, and the kids have the flu
But it’s sure nice talking to you, dad
It’s been sure nice talking to you
And as I hung up the phone, it occurred to me
He’d grown up just like me
My boy was just like me
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, son?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then, dad
We’re gonna have a good time then