Ain't Misbehavin'
Fat Waller Lyrics

The lyrics to Fats Waller's "Ain't Misbehavin'" paint a picture of a contented individual who is quite happy in their own company. Opening with the line "No one talk with, all by myself," the singer of the song seems to have resigned themselves to solitude. Despite this, however, they are far from unhappy, as evidenced by the line "But I'm happy on the shelf."

This general feeling of contentment is further emphasized in the chorus, where the singer proclaims that they are "Savin' [their] love for you," with "you" being the object of the singer's affection. The singer is steadfast in their love, declaring that they are "through with flirtin'" and that it is "you that [they're] thinking of."

The second verse of the song reinforces the singer's unwavering love with a nod to the nursery rhyme character Jack Horner, who sat in the corner eating his Christmas pie before discovering a plum therein. The singer uses Horner's situation to exemplify their own position, stating that they are "like Jack Horner in the corner," waiting patiently for their beloved's affection. They assure their beloved that "your kissings are worth waiting for" and again declare their intention to remain faithful with the refrain "Ain't misbehavin', savin' my love for you."

Overall, "Ain't Misbehavin'" is a celebration of steadfast love and contentment, even in the face of solitude. The singer of the song is not lonely, but rather peaceful and contented in their own company, knowing that their love is not misplaced.