What Is This Thing Called Love?
Julie London Lyrics


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What is this thing called love?
This funny thing called love
Just who can solve its mystery?
And why should it make a fool of me?

I saw you there, one wonderful day
But you took my heart and you threw my heart away
That's why I ask the Lord up in heaven above
Just what is this thing called love?





Overall Meaning

In Julie London's song "What Is This Thing Called Love," the singer is pondering the nature of love and the way it seems to defy reason and logic. She muses on the mystery of love, questioning whether anyone can truly solve it or understand it. In the second half of the song, she recounts a personal experience of heartbreak, where someone she loved deeply let her down. Despite the pain it caused, she remains intrigued by this "funny thing called love" and continues to seek answers.


The song captures a common human experience of being simultaneously fascinated and frustrated by love. Although it is a universal theme, Julie London's smooth and sultry voice brings a unique intimacy to the lyrics, making the listener feel as though they are hearing her personal musings on love. The melody flows beautifully, creating a dreamy atmosphere that makes the listener feel as though they too are caught up in the mystery of love.


Line by Line Meaning

What is this thing called love?
What is the name of this emotion that we refer to as love?


This funny thing called love
This mysterious and inexplicable emotion called love


Just who can solve its mystery?
Who has the ability to unravel the secrets behind this complex emotion?


And why should it make a fool of me?
And why does it have the power to make me act irrationally and foolishly?


I saw you there, one wonderful day
I noticed you on a particularly great day


But you took my heart and you threw my heart away
But you rejected my love and caused me great pain


That's why I ask the Lord up in heaven above
That's why I turn to a higher power, asking for guidance and understanding


Just what is this thing called love?
What exactly is this enigmatic and powerful emotion that has caused me such frustration and heartache?




Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Cole Porter

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@cariluzim

I love this song SO MUCH!

@DC9V

who plays the guitar on this record?

@arvh1952

wow .. the guitarist really cleaned it up.
i think it was Barney Kessell

@frankoleary4138

It says above it was Howard Roberts. Awesome huh?

@russt44

@@arvh1952 Barney is on Cry Me A River

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