In 1946, Bing Crosby released the song It’s the Natural Thing to Do as part of his album Blue Skies. This charming and upbeat tune captures the essence of a simpler time, with its catchy melody and nostalgic lyrics. However, beyond its surface appeal, this song carries a deeper message that resonates with listeners of all generations. Join us as we delve into the meanings behind the lyrics, themes, and influences of It’s the Natural Thing to Do, uncovering the timeless wisdom and universal truths contained within this classic piece of music.
Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 1
The main theme of the first verse of It’s the Natural Thing to Do by Bing Crosby is the simplicity and beauty of falling in love. The lyrics convey a sense of inevitability and naturalness in finding love, as the singer describes how meeting their significant other was just a part of life’s course.
Metaphors such as like a flower in the spring and like a swellin’ rose are used to compare the blossoming love to the beauty and growth of nature. These comparisons emphasize the organic and essential nature of love in our lives.
Repetition of the phrase It’s the natural thing to do reinforces the idea that love is an inherent part of the human experience and cannot be controlled or forced.
This verse sets the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the simplicity and inevitability of love.
Verse 2
The second verse continues the theme of naturalness in love, describing how the singer and their partner are like two birds a-buildin’ a nest. This metaphor conveys a sense of harmony and cooperation in building a life together.
The choice of words such as wonderful, glorious, and happy evokes positive emotions and emphasizes the joy found in love and companionship.
Repetition of the phrase It’s the natural thing to do in this verse reinforces the idea that love is a fundamental aspect of human existence.
This verse further develops the message of the song, emphasizing the happiness and fulfillment that love brings.
Overall Summary
Through the verses of It’s the Natural Thing to Do, Bing Crosby conveys the idea that love is an essential and joyful part of life. The lyrics paint a picture of love as something natural, beautiful, and fulfilling, using metaphors from nature to highlight its organic and inevitable nature. The repetition of the phrase It’s the natural thing to do throughout the song reinforces the message that love is a fundamental aspect of the human experience that brings happiness and fulfillment.
Chorus Analysis
Introduce the chorus:
The chorus of It’s the Natural Thing to Do by Bing Crosby goes like this:
It’s the natural thing to do, to kiss you
This chorus differs from the verses in terms of simplicity and directness. The chorus is straightforward and to the point, emphasizing the naturalness of expressing affection through a kiss.
Central theme or message:
The primary message conveyed in the chorus is the idea that showing affection, particularly through a kiss, is a natural and instinctual expression of love. The repetition of It’s the natural thing to do reinforces this theme and highlights the simplicity of the act of kissing.
Relationship between the chorus and verses:
The chorus serves as a bridge between the verses, as it encapsulates the main theme of the song and provides a memorable and catchy refrain. The chorus complements the verses by reinforcing the idea of expressing love through physical affection.
Overall significance of the chorus:
The chorus plays a crucial role in conveying the song’s central message of love and affection. Its simplicity and repetition make it easily memorable and evoke a sense of warmth and emotion in the listener. The chorus effectively communicates the artist’s intention of showcasing the naturalness of expressing love through physical gestures.
Cultural Context and Influences
Understanding the cultural context and influences behind a song can provide deeper insights into its meaning and significance. In the case of It’s the Natural Thing to Do by Bing Crosby, several key influences contribute to the overall message of the song.
Cultural Influences
One cultural influence that can be observed in the song is the emphasis on traditional values and societal norms. The lyrics of the song suggest a sense of duty and honor, reflecting a time when such values held significant importance in society. This cultural context may resonate with listeners who value tradition and adherence to societal expectations.
Historical Influences
Historically, the song may have been inspired by the patriotic fervor and sense of unity during a particular period. The themes of loyalty and doing what is natural may have been influenced by the historical events of the time, such as wartime efforts or periods of social change. The song’s historical context provides a commentary on the values and attitudes prevalent during that era.
Personal Influences
On a personal level, the songwriter(s) may have drawn from their own experiences or emotions to create the song. This personal perspective can be seen in the heartfelt delivery of the lyrics and the emotional resonance of the music. The authenticity of the song may be attributed to the songwriter’s personal beliefs and experiences.
By synthesizing these cultural, historical, and personal influences, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the meaning and significance of It’s the Natural Thing to Do. Appreciating the context and influences behind a song can enrich our interpretation and deepen our connection to the music.
Therefore, it is important to consider the cultural, historical, and personal influences behind other songs to gain a deeper understanding of their meaning and significance.
Conclusion: Reflecting on the Timeless Message of It’s the Natural Thing to Do by Bing Crosby
In conclusion, Bing Crosby’s iconic song It’s the Natural Thing to Do carries a timeless message that resonates with audiences of all generations. Through his soothing vocals and heartfelt delivery, Crosby reminds us of the importance of kindness, compassion, and generosity in our interactions with others. The song serves as a gentle reminder that simple acts of love and consideration can make a world of difference in someone’s life.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, the message of It’s the Natural Thing to Do remains as relevant as ever. It encourages us to prioritize empathy and understanding in our interactions with others, fostering a sense of unity and connectedness in a world that often feels divided. Let us heed Crosby’s wise words and strive to make kindness and compassion a natural part of our daily lives.