A Sunbonnet Blue
Billie Holiday; Teddy Wilson & His Orchestra Lyrics

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A sunbonnet blue and a yellow straw hat
Shy little he and she
Were declaring love's old story
In the shade of the old apple tree

A sunbonnet blue and a yellow straw hat
Decided to say, "I do"
So they rode to June and glory

On a bicycle built for two

Hear the past, the song is old
The summer days are through
With silver threads among the gold
They still say, "I love you"

A sunbonnet blue and a yellow straw hat
Are true to this very day

For he loves her in December
As he did in May

Overall Meaning

The song "A Sunbonnet Blue and a Yellow Straw Hat," sung by Billie Holiday, is a romantic ballad that tells the story of two shy lovers declaring their love under the shade of an apple tree. They eventually get married, riding off on a bicycle built for two. The lyrics are nostalgic, reflecting on the past and the enduring nature of love, even as the seasons change.

The imagery in the song is full of charm and whimsy. The sunbonnet blue and yellow straw hat represent the innocence and sweetness of the young couple's love. The shade of the apple tree provides a sense of shelter and intimacy, while the bicycle built for two is a classic symbol of romance and adventure.

The song's refrain, "With silver threads among the gold, they still say, 'I love you,'" suggests that the couple's love has endured through the years. The reference to "silver threads" represents the passing of time, as well as the wisdom and maturity that comes with age. Despite the changes and challenges of life, the couple's love remains steadfast and true.

Line by Line Meaning

A sunbonnet blue and a yellow straw hat
Two lovers who wear a sunbonnet blue and a yellow straw hat respectively

Shy little he and she
They were shy and timid individuals

Were declaring love's old story
Professing their love for each other

In the shade of the old apple tree
Under the apple tree they are shaded from the sun

A sunbonnet blue and a yellow straw hat
The same lovers reappear

Decided to say, "I do"
They decided to get married

So they rode to June and glory
They were happy together

On a bicycle built for two
They rode a tandem bicycle, built for two people

Hear the past, the song is old
This story has been told before

The summer days are through
The happy days are gone

With silver threads among the gold
They are aging now, but love still remains