About the song
“Cat’s in the Cradle” is a poignant folk rock ballad by American singer-songwriter Harry Chapin, released in 1974. This heartfelt song, Chapin’s only number-one hit, has become a timeless classic, resonating with audiences of all ages. Its enduring popularity stems from its universal theme of the complex and often strained relationship between fathers and sons.
The song’s narrative unfolds through the eyes of a busy father who, despite his son’s admiration, is consistently preoccupied with his work. As the years pass, the son grows up, mirroring his father’s career-driven lifestyle. However, when the father finally retires and seeks his son’s companionship, he discovers that the tables have turned. His son, now a busy adult himself, is too occupied to spend time with him, echoing the very neglect he experienced as a child.
The song’s lyrics, penned by Chapin’s wife, Sandra Gaston, draw inspiration from the strained relationship between her first husband and his father. Gaston’s personal experiences, coupled with Chapin’s own reflections on his relationship with his son, lend a raw authenticity to the song’s emotional impact.
“Cat’s in the Cradle” serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones. It highlights the unintended consequences of prioritizing career and material success over family and personal connections. The song’s timeless message continues to resonate with listeners, prompting introspection and reflection on the choices we make in our own lives.
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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