“Father and Son” is a song about the age-old story where the father’s vision for his son does not align with his son’s dreams for the future. Cat Stevens refurbishes the story with his unique and beautiful phrasing in the lyrics and melody.
It has taken me some time to warm up to this song due to the violent rift I had with my father regarding my future. My Dad passed away in 2006, and now, in my older years, I can see and appreciate the opportunities he gave me. I am at peace with the relationship, and I am inspired by my father’s accomplishments.
You might think this song pertains to Cat Stevens’ struggles with his father, but that is not the case. His father owned a Greek restaurant, and like all fathers, wanted his son to join the business. Stevens, of course, had vastly different ideas. Wisely, his father never stood in the way of his son’s dreams.
Stevens wrote this song, imagining a Russian father and son differing about the son’s future. “Father and Son” was originally planned as part of a stage play. The project never saw the light of day. Stevens eventually released the song on his “Tea for the Tillerman” album.
Here’s my cover.
Heart Banter by David Gittlin 
5 replies on “Cat Stevens’ ‘Father and Son’: A Personal Reflection”
This is great David. You’re such a good writer, I like what you said about your relationship with your dad as well. Thank you!!
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beautiful story
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Love this performance, David! I experienced the father/daughter version, and this post is very relatable. 🎶
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Great to hear that it resonated with you. And it’s not only fathers and sons!
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[…] underlying messages about childhood and the relationships between children and adults, such as ‘Father & Son’ and ‘Oh Very Young,’ to name a few. “Where Do the Children Play?” is no exception. […]
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