September Song
Don Cornell Lyrics

In the song September Song by Don Cornell, the lyrics tackle the natural course of time and aging. The first line describes the distance in time between May and December as a metaphor for the lengthy and winding time it takes to grow old. The next line explains how as one gets older, time seems to pass by quickly as it does in September when the autumn season arrives and leaves change colors. 'The waiting game' mentioned in the third line signifies patience required to endure the slow pace of life as one grows older. The repetition of the word 'precious' in the fourth line clearly emphasizes how little time we have when we reach the last phase of our lives. The last two lines of the chorus indicate the importance of spending that little and so-called 'precious' time with loved ones in our life.

The song contains a deeply emotional and reflective message that time is fleeting, and one should celebrate every moment of life with loved ones. The song was composed by Kurt Weill and Maxwell Anderson for the 1938 romantic play 'Knickerbocker Holiday.' The song has been performed and recorded by various singers, including Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Willie Nelson, and others. Willie Nelson's version of September Song reached number one on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart in 1981. This timeless tune has been featured in several movies and TV shows such as 'Meet Joe Black', 'Seven Days in May,' and 'The West Wing.' September Song is considered a classic standard and is often played during Oldies Radio programs.