About the song
Neil Diamond’s “I Am… I Said,” a hauntingly introspective ballad released in 1971, stands as one of his most enduring and critically acclaimed works. The song, which reached the top five on both the U.S. and UK charts, delves into the depths of Diamond’s psyche, offering a poignant exploration of identity, self-doubt, and the search for meaning.
The genesis of “I Am… I Said” can be traced back to a period of personal turmoil in Diamond’s life. Inspired by therapy sessions in Los Angeles, the song emerged as a cathartic expression of his innermost thoughts and feelings. As Diamond himself revealed, “It was consciously an attempt on my part to express what my dreams were about, what my aspirations were about and what I was about.”
The song’s lyrics, laden with poetic imagery and philosophical musings, paint a vivid picture of Diamond’s internal struggle. He grapples with existential questions, questioning his purpose and place in the world. The lines “I am, I said, to no one there. And no one heard at all, not even the chair” convey a profound sense of isolation and alienation.
Despite its introspective nature, “I Am… I Said” resonated deeply with audiences, connecting with the universal human experience of self-doubt and the search for meaning. The song’s success can be attributed to Diamond’s powerful vocals, the evocative melody, and the relatable themes it explores.
While critical reception has been largely positive, with many praising the song’s lyrical depth and emotional intensity, some have questioned its accessibility. Humorist Dave Barry famously criticized the song’s “opaqueness,” suggesting that its lyrics were overly convoluted and difficult to understand.
Regardless of its detractors, “I Am… I Said” remains a significant milestone in Neil Diamond’s career. It showcases his ability to craft deeply personal and emotionally resonant music, solidifying his status as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation.
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Lyrics
L.A.’s fine, the sun shines most the time
And the feeling is “lay back”
Palm trees grow and rents are low
But you know I keep thinkin’ about
Making my way back
Well I’m New York City born and raised
But nowadays
I’m lost between two shores
L.A.’s fine, but it ain’t home
New York’s home
But it ain’t mine no more
“I am”… I said
To no one there
And no one heard at all
Not even the chair
“I am”… I cried
“I am”… said I
And I am lost and I can’t
Even say why
Leavin’ me lonely still
Did you ever read about a frog
Who dreamed of bein’ a king
And then became one
Well except for the names
And a few other changes
If you talk about me
The story is the same one
But I got an emptiness deep inside
And I’ve tried
But it won’t let me go
And I’m not a man who likes to swear
But I never cared
For the sound of being alone
“I am”… I said
To no one there
And no one heard at all
Not even the chair
“I am”… I cried
“I am”… said I
And I am lost and I can’t
Even say why
“I am”… I said
“I am”… I cried
“I am”