Beautiful (Gordon Lightfoot song)

"Beautiful" is a song written and performed by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. It was released in 1972 on his album Don Quixote.

The song is a ballad characterized by its gentle melody and introspective lyrics. Lightfoot's signature acoustic guitar style is prominent in the arrangement, providing a simple yet effective accompaniment to his vocals.

The lyrics of "Beautiful" are generally interpreted as an expression of longing and appreciation for the beauty found in simple, everyday moments and natural surroundings. The song evokes a sense of nostalgia and a reflection on the fleeting nature of time. It is not explicitly a love song in the traditional sense, but rather a broader contemplation on the beauty present in the world and the importance of recognizing it.

"Beautiful" is considered one of Lightfoot's lesser-known works compared to some of his bigger hits like "Sundown" or "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald," but it remains a favorite among dedicated fans for its understated charm and thoughtful lyrics. It has been included on various Lightfoot compilations and continues to be performed live.