Tea For Two
Count Basie Orchestra/Ella Fitzgerald Lyrics

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I'm discontented with homes that I've rented
So I have invented my own
Darling, this place is a lovely oasis
Where life's weary taste is unknown

Far from the crowded city
Where flowers pretty caress the stream
Cozy to hide in, to live side by side in

Don't let it apart in my dream

Picture me upon your knee
Just tea for two
And two for tea
Just me for you
And you for me alone

Nobody near us to see us or hear us
No friends or relations
On weekend vacations
We won't have it known
That we own a telephone, dear

Day will break and I'll wake
And start to bake a sugar cake
For you to take for all the boys to see

We will raise a family
A boy for you
And a girl for me
Can't you see how happy we would be?

Picture you upon my knee
Just tea for two
And two for tea
Just me for you
And you for me alone

Nobody near us to see us or hear us
No friends or relations
On weekend vacations
We won't have it known
That we own a telephone, dear

Day will break, you'll wake
And start to bake a sugar cake
For you to take for all the boys to see

We will raise a family

A boy for you
And a girl for me

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Tea for Two" describe the desire for a perfect little world, a cozy oasis away from the weariness of life's trials and tribulations. The singer is tired of renting homes and has decided to create a home that reflects their vision of a perfect life, a life of quiet intimacy and love. The singer dreams of sitting with their significant other, having tea for two, and being completely alone in their world. The imagery used in the song makes it clear that the singer wants nothing to do with the busyness and noise of the world outside of their little paradise.

The final verse of the song takes things a step further, painting a picture of a future where the tea for two has become a reality, where the couple has raised a family and created a home filled with happiness and love. This verse further emphasizes the singer's desire for a quiet, idyllic life with their loved one. Overall, the lyrics to "Tea for Two" are a romantic and poignant yearning for a simpler, happier existence, free from the stresses of the world outside.

Line by Line Meaning

I'm discontented with homes that I've rented
I am unhappy with the places I have lived in that were not my own

So I have invented my own
As a result, I have created my own home

Darling, this place is a lovely oasis
My dearest, this spot is a beautiful sanctuary

Where life's weary taste is unknown
Where the unpleasantness of life cannot bother us

Far from the crowded city
A long distance away from the bustling metropolis

Where flowers pretty caress the stream
Where the attractive flowers stroke the stream

Cozy to hide in, to live side by side in
A snug place where we can conceal ourselves and spend life together

Don't let it apart in my dream
Do not let this dream be shattered

Picture me upon your knee
Imagine me sitting upon your lap

Just tea for two
Just us sharing a cup of tea

And two for tea
And another cup for you and me