The enduring friction between Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel stemmed primarily from a deep-seated sense of betrayal and professional resentment that took root early in their careers. Their highly publicized feuds were a complex interplay of creative differences, competing egos, and diverging personal ambitions.
A Partnership Plagued by Betrayal and Resentment
At the heart of their frequent conflicts was a profound sense of betrayal felt by Art Garfunkel. He perceived Paul Simon's pursuit of individual projects, particularly Simon's early moves toward a solo career, as a form of abandonment—feeling he was being left behind. This perception created a deep-seated resentment and a pervasive atmosphere of distrust, which became the fundamental basis for the simmering anger that defined much of their relationship, even during periods of apparent collaboration or reunion.
Key Factors Contributing to Their Conflict
Beyond the initial breach of trust, several other factors contributed to the ongoing tension between the iconic duo:
- Creative Imbalance: Paul Simon was the primary songwriter, composing nearly all of Simon & Garfunkel's material. While this songwriting genius was a cornerstone of their success, it often led to an imbalance in creative control and recognition within the partnership. Art Garfunkel, as the distinct voice and arranger, often felt his contributions were undervalued or overshadowed.
- Egos and Artistic Control: Both artists possessed strong personalities and formidable talents. As their individual careers evolved, so did their desire for artistic autonomy. This led to clashes over musical direction, performance choices, and the overall trajectory of their work together.
- Diverging Career Paths: Following their initial separation, Garfunkel ventured into an acting career, while Simon immediately focused on establishing himself as a solo recording artist. These separate pursuits further highlighted their individual aspirations, making it difficult to fully reconcile their professional identities within the duo's framework.
- Financial Disparities: Due to Paul Simon's role as the songwriter, he accrued significant income from publishing rights in addition to performance earnings. This financial disparity, inherent in the music industry's structure, could have been an underlying source of tension and inequity within their partnership.
The Long Shadow of Distrust
The foundational feeling of betrayal and subsequent resentment proved difficult to overcome, even during their sporadic reunion tours and projects. Each attempt to rekindle their partnership often encountered the same deep-rooted issues of trust and creative control, leading to renewed arguments and, ultimately, further separations. The lingering distrust ensured that their professional relationship remained volatile and fraught with conflict for decades.
