He is also a veteran of musical theatre. In 1972, Bostwick originated the role of Danny Zuko in the original Broadway production of Grease. The role earned Bostwick a Tony Award nomination. Bostwick's other theatre roles include portraying bandit Jamie Lockhart in the 1977 Broadway musical The Robber Bridegroom. For this role, Bostwick earned his Tony Award. In 1990, another Broadway musical, Nick and Nora, in which Bostwick co-starred with Joanna Gleason, opened to poor reviews and closed after few performances.
The Girl That I Marry
Barry Bostwick Lyrics
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As soft and as pink as a nursery
The girl I call my own
Will wear satins and laces and smell of cologne
Her nails will be polished and, in her hair,
She'll wear a gardenia and I'll be there
'stead of flittin', I'll be sittin'
A doll I can carry, the girl that I marry must be
Her nails will be polished and, in her hair,
She'll wear a gardenia and I'll be there
'stead of flittin', I'll be sittin'
Next to her and she'll purr like a kitten
A doll I can carry, the girl that I marry must be
The lyrics of Barry Bostwick's song "The Girl That I Marry" paint a portrait of a traditional, idealized vision of a wife and partner. Bostwick describes the qualities he desires in the girl he will marry, emphasizing her softness and femininity. The imagery of her being "soft and as pink as a nursery" suggests innocence and purity, reinforcing the idea of her being a delicate and gentle presence in his life. This description sets the tone for the type of partner he envisions - one who embodies traditional ideals of femininity.
The lyrics continue to detail the physical attributes and adornments that the girl he marries will possess. Bostwick sings about her wearing satins and laces, smelling of cologne, and having polished nails. These details indicate a sense of elegance and refinement, suggesting that he values a partner who is well put together and visually appealing. The mention of a gardenia in her hair further enhances the image of her being adorned in a way that appeals to his senses and meets his standards of beauty.
The imagery of her "purring like a kitten" next to him conveys a sense of contentment and harmony in their relationship. It suggests a desire for a partner who is affectionate, soothing, and brings him comfort. The comparison to a doll that he can carry emphasizes the idea of her being a precious and cherished possession, someone he can protect and care for. This language reinforces traditional gender roles and expectations within a relationship, where the woman is seen as a dependent and delicate figure in need of his guidance and support.
Overall, the lyrics of "The Girl That I Marry" reflect a romanticized and idealized view of marriage and partnership, one that may be perceived as outdated or reinforcing gender stereotypes. Bostwick's portrayal of his future wife as soft, fragrant, and adorned in luxurious attire speaks to a desire for a traditional, aesthetically pleasing partner who fulfills certain roles and expectations. While these lyrics may resonate with some who appreciate classic notions of romance and companionship, others may find them restrictive or limiting in their portrayal of women and relationships.
Line by Line Meaning
The girl that I marry will have to be
The woman I choose to marry must possess certain qualities
As soft and as pink as a nursery
She should be gentle and delicate like a baby's room
The girl I call my own
The woman who belongs to me
Will wear satins and laces and smell of cologne
She will dress elegantly and have a pleasant fragrance
Her nails will be polished and, in her hair,
Her grooming will be impeccable, with manicured nails and styled hair
She'll wear a gardenia and I'll be there
She will wear a specific flower, and I will be by her side
'stead of flittin', I'll be sittin'
Instead of wandering aimlessly, I will be content by her side
Next to her and she'll purr like a kitten
Being close to her will bring her comfort and contentment
A doll I can carry, the girl that I marry must be
I desire a partner who is like a precious possession that I can cherish
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Spirit Music Group
Written by: IRVING BERLIN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind