"Cat's in the Cradle" is a song by Harry Chapin released in 1974. The lyrics tell the story of a father who is too busy with work to spend time with his son. As the boy grows up, he longs for his father's attention but learns that his father is always preoccupied. As the father ages, he finds that his son has adopted the same behavior, prioritizing work over family. The song highlights themes of parenting, regret, and the importance of spending quality time with loved ones, ultimately conveying a message about the consequences of neglecting family relationships.