Marsala's own playing was rich and graceful, owing a lot to Jimmie Noone. Although usually thought of as a "dixielander" along with Eddie Condon, Marsala was more adventurous: in the 1940s he used Dizzy Gillespie on a recording session, for instance.
That said, he did have some difficulties adjusting to the bebop era and other clarinetists also found their skills less in demand. By 1949 he partly switched to writing songs in the genre now called classic pop. He did this primarily for Frank Sinatra and Patti Page. Among these songs was the hit Don't Cry, Joe (Let Her Go, Let Her Go, Let Her Go), which led friends to the unfounded fear his marriage to Adele Girard was over. He also wrote And So to Sleep Again for Patti Page.
According to his wife, Adele, Joe Marsala also suffered from chronic colitis and was unable to drink alcohol. He died in Santa Barbara, California.
East of the Sun
Joe Marsala Lyrics
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We'll build a dream house of love dear
Close to the sun in the day
Near to the moon at night
We'll live in a lovely way dear
Sharing our love in the pale moonlight
Just you and I, Forever and a day
Love will not die,
We'll keep it that way
Up among the stars
We'll find a harmony of life to a lovely tune
East of the sun and west of the moon dear
East of the sun and west of the moon
In the lyrics of Joe Marsala's song "East of the Sun," the words "East of the sun and west of the moon" evoke a sense of a far-off, dreamlike place that is beyond the ordinary realms of reality. This imagery sets the stage for the theme of building a dream house of love, where the lovers can escape to a paradise away from the constraints of the everyday world. The idea of constructing a "dream house of love" suggests a shared vision of a perfect, idyllic life together, far removed from any troubles or distractions.
The juxtaposition of being "close to the sun in the day" and "near to the moon at night" symbolizes the cyclical nature of time and the rhythm of life. It reinforces the idea of living in harmony with the natural world and finding balance between the opposing forces of light and darkness. This contrast also reflects the different facets of a romantic relationship - the warmth and brightness of day symbolizing love's passion and intensity, while the cool, serene moonlight represents its quiet, soothing comfort.
The lyrics express a deep sense of intimacy and closeness between the two lovers, as they vow to "share our love in the pale moonlight." This image of sharing love under the gentle glow of the moon conveys a sense of vulnerability and tenderness, as well as a commitment to nurturing their relationship in moments of quiet and reflection. The mention of living "in a lovely way" suggests a life filled with beauty, joy, and affection, where love is not only professed but also actively lived and experienced in daily interactions.
The recurring refrain of "just you and I, forever and a day" emphasizes the enduring nature of their love and the unwavering commitment to each other. The promise that "love will not die" and the determination to "keep it that way" suggest a belief in the power of love to overcome any challenges or obstacles that may come their way. The image of being "up among the stars" reinforces the idea of a transcendent, timeless love that exists on a higher plane, where they can find peace, harmony, and joy in each other's presence. The repetition of the phrase "East of the sun and west of the moon dear" serves as a poetic reminder of their shared dreams and aspirations, as they journey together towards a love that transcends earthly boundaries.
Line by Line Meaning
East of the sun and west of the moon
Exploring new and unknown territories in search of love and happiness
We'll build a dream house of love dear
Creating a strong and beautiful relationship together
Close to the sun in the day
Enjoying love and happiness during the day
Near to the moon at night
Feeling close and connected to each other at night
We'll live in a lovely way dear
Choosing to live in a positive and loving manner
Sharing our love in the pale moonlight
Expressing love and affection in a romantic setting
Just you and I,
Emphasizing the importance of the relationship between two individuals
Forever and a day
Promising eternal love and commitment
Love will not die,
Believing that love is everlasting and enduring
We'll keep it that way
Making a commitment to maintain a strong and loving relationship
Up among the stars
Feeling elevated and inspired by love
We'll find a harmony of life to a lovely tune
Discovering balance and happiness in life together
East of the sun and west of the moon dear
Continuing to search for love and fulfillment beyond expectations
East of the sun and west of the moon
Continuing the journey towards love and happiness
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Brooks Bowman
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind