"Easier Said Than Done" is a song by Irish singer-songwriter Gilbert O'Sullivan, released in 1977. The song conveys a message about the challenges and complexities of life and how things are often easier said than done. The lyrics touch on various themes and situations to illustrate this idea. In the first verse, O'Sullivan questions the concept of home and emphasizes that it's not just the physical location but also the feeling of belonging that matters. He suggests that even if someone believes they can make a success of something, it is often harder to actually achieve it. In the second verse, O'Sullivan tackles the topic of vegetarianism and the ethical dilemma it poses. He highlights the contradiction of eating plants, which are also living organisms. The line "Show me where a leaf out of any book comes from" implies that there isn't a simple solution or guideline that can be followed in every situation. The following verses use vivid imagery to depict situations that seem unlikely or contradictory. A summer's day in dead of winter, a New Year's ball being headed in, and a fleet of cars on the ocean all suggest situations that are difficult or impossible to achieve. O'Sullivan also references the concept of choosing between a bed of nails and a bed of roses, metaphorically representing the choices and challenges in life. He mentions mixamatosis, a disease that affects rabbits, to highlight the illogical or contradictory nature of certain situations. The song then touches on the struggles of education and finding employment. O'Sullivan suggests that even with a high level of education, finding a suitable job is not easy and can be elusive. Overall, "Easier Said Than Done" is a song that explores the difficulties and complexities of life, highlighting the discrepancies and challenges inherent in various situations. It emphasizes that the path to success, happiness, and fulfillment is often more difficult than it may seem at first glance.
