What silence refers to in sound of silence?

In the song "The Sounds of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel, the term "silence" refers to the societal and spiritual isolation felt by the individuals portrayed in the song. It symbolizes a world where genuine communication and understanding have become lacking. The lyrics create an atmosphere of loneliness and disconnectedness, where people are either unwilling or unable to express themselves authentically. The silence reflects the lack of meaningful connection and the difficulty of breaking through societal barriers and walls of isolation.