Nice Work If You Can Get It
Harry 'Sweets' Edison Lyrics


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The man who only lives for making money
Lives a life that isn't necessarily sunny
Likewise the man who works for fame

There's no guarantee that time won't erase his name
The fact is, the only work that really brings enjoyment
Is the kind that is for girl and boy meant
Fall in love and you won't regret it
That's the best work of all, if you can get it
Holding hands at midnight

'Neath a starry sky
Nice work if you can get it
And you can get it if you try
Strolling with the one girl
Sighing sigh after sigh
Nice work if you can get it
And you can get it if you try

Just imagine someone
Waiting at the cottage door
Where two hearts become one
Who could ask for anything more?
Loving one who loves you
And then taking that vow
It's nice work if you can get it
And if you get it, won't you tell me how?"

Just imagine someone
Waiting at the cottage door
Where two hearts become one
Who could ask for anything more?
Loving one who loves you
And then taking that vow




Nice work if you can get it
And if you get it, won't you tell me how?"

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Harry 'Sweets' Edison's song "Nice Work If You Can Get It" explore the different aspects of work and the search for fulfillment in life. The first two lines suggest that those who solely focus on making money or pursuing fame may not necessarily lead happy or fulfilling lives. It highlights the idea that material success or recognition alone is not enough to guarantee personal satisfaction.


The lyrics then introduce the idea that the only work that truly brings joy is the kind that is meant for love and companionship. Falling in love and forming meaningful relationships is described as the best work of all. It suggests that finding genuine love and connection with another person brings the highest level of contentment and fulfillment.


The subsequent lines depict the beauty of romance and the shared moments of intimacy. Holding hands at midnight under a starry sky is portrayed as a delightful experience. The lyrics emphasize that such moments of connection and affection are worth striving for, and they can be achieved if one makes an effort.


The song continues with the idea of envisioning someone waiting at the cottage door, symbolizing a loving partner yearning for your presence. The lyrics express the notion that finding someone to love and build a life with is something to be cherished. The idea of two hearts becoming one and taking a vow signifies the depth of commitment and dedication in a relationship.


In the final verse, the lyrics reiterate that it would be wonderful to have someone waiting at the cottage door. They acknowledge that finding genuine love is indeed fulfilling work but also ask for guidance in achieving it, as if seeking advice from those who have already experienced such a profound connection.


Overall, "Nice Work If You Can Get It" conveys the message that finding love and genuine relationships is the most rewarding aspect of life's work. It emphasizes the importance of connections, affection, and commitment in experiencing true fulfillment and happiness.


Line by Line Meaning

The man who only lives for making money
A person who prioritizes pursuing wealth above all else


Lives a life that isn't necessarily sunny
Their life may not be happy or fulfilling despite their financial success


Likewise the man who works for fame
Similarly, someone who strives for fame


There's no guarantee that time won't erase his name
There is no assurance that their name and fame will withstand the test of time


The fact is, the only work that really brings enjoyment
In reality, the only task that truly brings joy


Is the kind that is for girl and boy meant
Is the work that is meant for romantic relationships


Fall in love and you won't regret it
If you fall in love, you won't have any regrets


That's the best work of all, if you can get it
Finding love is the most fulfilling endeavor if you are able to achieve it


Holding hands at midnight
Engaging in a romantic gesture of holding hands at midnight


'Neath a starry sky
Underneath a sky adorned with stars


Nice work if you can get it
It is a pleasant experience if you are fortunate enough to have it


And you can get it if you try
One can attain this experience through effort and perseverance


Strolling with the one girl
Taking a leisurely walk with a significant other


Sighing sigh after sigh
Expressing deep emotions and contentment


Just imagine someone
Envisioning a person


Waiting at the cottage door
Anticipating someone's arrival at the cottage


Where two hearts become one
Where two individuals share an unbreakable bond of love


Who could ask for anything more?
What else could one possibly desire?


Loving one who loves you
Being in a mutually affectionate relationship


And then taking that vow
Committing to each other through marriage


It's nice work if you can get it
It is a delightful experience if you are able to find it


And if you get it, won't you tell me how?
If you do get it, please share with me the secret to obtaining it




Lyrics © DELLA BLUE MUSIC LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: HARRY SWEETS EDISON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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