It was written primarily by the band's frontman Roger Hodgson, who based the lyrics on his experiences being sent away to boarding school for ten years.

"The Logical Song" was written primarily by Roger Hodgson, the lyrics based on his experience of being sent away to boarding school for ten years.

I think this eternal question continues to hit such a deep chord in people around the world and why it stays so meaningful.

"[11] According to the 1979 album notes, Supertramp co-founder Rick Davies wrote the vocal harmony on the second chorus,[12] though Hodgson alone is credited with songwriting.

[11][12] Stephen Holden of Rolling Stone called the song a "small masterpiece", praising the "hot sax" and Hodgson's "wry humor".

[15] Billboard considered it to be possibly Supertramp's best song to date with "solid and incisive lyrics" and a catchy hook.

[16] Cash Box said that "a skillful and probing lyric and a raucous sax line are joined by a familiar circling guitar lick and excellent singing" and also praised the "emphatic" beat.

1 on the Canadian RPM Singles Chart,[22] was the top song of the year, and was certified Platinum in Canada.

German techno band Scooter covered "The Logical Song" and released it as a single in 2001 under the title "Ramp!

This version heavily samples Supertramp's recording, and makes lyrical references to British stadium house band the KLF.