About The Song
A Touching Tribute to Fatherhood: Delving into Paul Anka’s “Papa”
In the realm of music, there are songs that entertain, songs that inspire, and songs that evoke a deep emotional resonance. Paul Anka’s “Papa” falls into the latter category, a poignant ballad that captures the essence of fatherhood and the enduring bond between a father and son. Released in 1974, the song has become a timeless classic, touching the hearts of listeners across generations with its heartfelt lyrics and tender melody.
From the opening lines, “Papa” paints a vivid picture of a father’s unwavering dedication to his family. The singer fondly recalls his childhood, where his father worked tirelessly to provide for his loved ones, ensuring they had food on the table and shoes on their feet. Every night, the father’s love was evident as he tucked his son into bed, offering a kiss and a blessing after prayers were said.
As the son grows older, the song chronicles the challenges and joys of life, highlighting the father’s unwavering presence through thick and thin. He stands as a pillar of strength during times of sadness and tears, offering guidance and support.
The song takes a poignant turn when the mother passes away, leaving a void in the family. The father is consumed by grief, questioning why he was not taken instead. He retreats into his sorrow, finding solace in his rocking chair, unable to bear the emptiness of their shared home.
Despite his grief, the father finds the strength to support his son as he grows into adulthood. He encourages his son to embrace independence, assuring him that he will be okay alone. The father’s words, “There are things you must do; places you must see,” echo with wisdom and acceptance, recognizing the natural progression of life.
The song concludes with the son reflecting on his father’s words, now a father himself. As he kisses his own children, he realizes the profound truth in his father’s words: “Your children live through you. And they’ll grow. They’ll leave you, too.” The cycle of life continues, with each generation passing on the lessons and love they have received.
“Papa” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of love and the unbreakable bond between a father and son. It’s a reminder that even in the face of loss and change, the love we share with our parents never fades. Their presence may be gone, but their influence and guidance remain, shaping our lives and forever etched in our hearts.
Video
Lyrics
Everyday my papa would work
To try to make ends meet
To see that we would eat
Keep those shoes upon my feet
Every night my papa would take me
And tuck me in my bed
Kiss me on my head
After all the prayers were said
And there were years
Of sadness and of tears
Through it all
Together we were strong
We were strong
Times were rough
But Papa he was tough
Mama stood beside him all along
Growing up with them was easy
The time had flew on by
The years began to fly
They aged and so did I
And I could tell
That mama she wasn’t well
Papa knew and deep down so did she
So did she
When she died
Papa broke down and he cried
And all he could say was, “God, why her? Take me!”
Everyday he sat there sleeping in a walking chair
He never went upstais
All Because she wasn’t there
Then one day my Papa said,
“Son, I’m proud of how you’ve grown”
He said, “Go out and make it on your own.
Don’t worry. I’m O.K. alone.”
He said, “There are things that you must do”
He said, “There’s places you must see”
And his eyes were sad as he
As he said goodbye to me
Every time I kiss my children
Papa’s words ring true
He said, “Children live through you.
Let them grow! They’ll leave you, too”
I remember every word Papa used to say
I kiss my kids and pray
That they’ll think of me
Oh how I pray
They will think of me
That way
Someday