May I have your thoughts on what I experienced when listening to an old Musical?

Question

I was listening to "State Fair" and it hit me how the years had changed the thoughts the lyrics could evoke over the years.

It Might As Well Be Spring
Lyrics by: Oscar Hammerstein II (O. Greeley Clendenning H. II)
Music by: Richard Rodgers
From the Film: State Fair 1945 (M)

I'm as restless as a willow in a windstorm, I'm as jumpy as puppet on a string
I'd say that I had spring fever, but I know it isn't spring
I am starry eyed and vaguely discontented, like a nightingale without a song to sing
O why should I have spring fever, when it isn't even spring

I keep wishing I were someone else, walking down a strange new street
And hearing words that I've never heard from a girl I've yet to meet
I'm as busy as spider spinning daydreams, spinning spinning daydreams
I'm as giddy as a baby on a swing

I haven't seen a crocus or a rosebud, or a robin on the wing
But I feel so gay in a melancholy way, that it might as well be spring
It might as well be spring

I retired in 1987...does that tell you something.

Answer 1

Dear fellow, I find it comforting to know that someone out there cares enough to listen to show tunes from such "marginal" fare as "State Fair."

Yes, indeed, the lyrics belie a bygone era. While there was much to deride in those times, such as unwarranted fear of self-expression, some of the sentiment expressed by items like this one are noteworthy.

What changed? The times, sir. We had the sixties answered by the awful myopic Reagan followed by the advent of Rap. What I find objectionable truly is the anger evinced in so much of today's lyrics with their biting melodies.

We cannot return to the past, nor do I wish it. Still, I can wish for a bit more kindness in the world.

If not more kindness, then at least more sequins to add sparkle.

Answer 2

Like most works by Rodgers and Hammerstein the musical may be dated but the message is timeless. I think you've got good taste, sir.

Answer 3

That happens a lot with me... the meanings of songs change for me as I get older (I'm a lot younger than you, though...tee hee).

That's cool you like musical theatre, by the way. I'm a total musical theatre geek (although I like the more modern stuff, personally. I'm a huge Sondheim fan.)

Answer 4

and this is news to you?