Body & Soul
Billie Holliday with Bob Haggart and His Orchestra Lyrics

The lyrics of "Body and Soul" by Billie Holiday with Bob Haggart and His Orchestra speak of deep and intense emotions, particularly those of longing, desire, and unrequited love. The opening lines express the singer's profound sadness and loneliness, as well as the yearning and sighing for the person they hold dear and are devoted to with everything they have. The singer questions why their feelings have gone unnoticed or unreciprocated, emphasizing the devotion and commitment they feel towards this person with the phrase "I'm all for you body and soul."

As the lyrics progress, the singer continues to express their deep longing and contemplation of why they are not receiving the attention or affection they desire from the object of their affection. The use of the word "ogling" suggests a sense of being watched or scrutinized, adding an element of vulnerability and self-awareness to the lyrics. Despite expressing their truth and sincerity to the person they love, the singer still finds themselves in a state of longing and uncertainty, repeating the sentiment that they are completely devoted to this person in body and soul.

The lyrics then delve into a moment of disbelief and desperation, as the singer struggles to comprehend why their romantic advances are being rejected or ignored. The lyrics question whether the other person is merely pretending or if this marks the end of their relationship, creating a sense of impending loss and finality. The singer expresses a desire for just one more opportunity to prove themselves and salvage the love they feel, highlighting the depth of their emotions and the willingness to fight for a chance at happiness.

The closing lines of the song bring a sense of resignation and vulnerability, as the singer acknowledges the wreckage that their unreciprocated love has caused in their life. Despite the pain and turmoil, the singer reiterates their willingness to surrender entirely to the person they love, offering themselves up with complete devotion and vulnerability in body and soul. This final plea encapsulates the intensity of the singer's emotions and their unyielding commitment to the person who holds their heart, painting a poignant picture of love, longing, and sacrifice.