I was a student at Columbia College, actually, in the Architecture school. Paul would drive in from Queens, showing me these new songs. I can't remember us working it out.

The quote "I was a student at Columbia College, actually, in the Architecture school. Paul would drive in from Queens, showing me these new songs. I can't remember us working it out." by Art Garfunkel provides a nostalgic glimpse into the early days of his legendary musical partnership with Paul Simon. In this reflection, Garfunkel recalls his time studying architecture at Columbia College in New York City while simultaneously collaborating informally with Simon, who would visit him from Queens to share new music. The quote captures the organic and unstructured way their early creative process unfolded.

Though best known as half of the iconic folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, Garfunkel originally pursued a career in architecture, showing the breadth of his intellectual and artistic interests. His comment about not being able to "remember us working it out" suggests that their musical collaboration was natural and intuitive, rather than meticulously planned. This spontaneity helped shape the soulful and timeless sound that would later define songs like "The Sound of Silence" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water."

The quote also highlights the intersection of academic life and creative passion. Garfunkel’s immersion in architectural studies coexisted with his musical development, perhaps even influencing his appreciation for structure, harmony, and aesthetic balance—qualities evident in the duo's music. Paul Simon's consistent efforts to share new compositions reflect their strong artistic connection and mutual dedication to songwriting and performance even during their formative college years.

Ultimately, this quote offers a quiet but meaningful insight into the origins of one of the most celebrated musical duos of the 20th century. It reflects on a time before fame, when two young men were simply sharing ideas, unaware of the global recognition they would eventually achieve. Garfunkel’s casual recollection underscores how great artistic partnerships often begin not with grand plans, but with friendship, shared passion, and the freedom to create without pressure.