It's De-Lovely
Raymond Scott And His Orchestra Lyrics

The song "It's De-Lovely," composed by Cole Porter and performed by Raymond Scott and His Orchestra, paints a vivid picture of a romantic evening filled with possibility. The opening lines set the stage with a recognition that "the night is young" and "the skies are clear," suggesting an atmosphere that is not only beautiful but also ripe for connection and intimacy. The phrase "delightful, delicious, de-lovely" becomes a mantra throughout the lyrics, evoking a sense of joy and appreciation for the pleasures of love and nature. The use of the term "de-lovely" offers both a playful and heightened sense of bliss, emphasizing that the qualities of romance and nature merge seamlessly to create an enchanting experience. The singer expresses an understanding of the inherent sentimentality in romantic encounters, suggesting that both the singer and their beloved are drawn into a shared emotional state, reflecting the deep connection that love can inspire.

As the lyrics continue, there is a keen acknowledgment of the romantic qualities of the night. The reference to "Mother Nature" whispering to "let yourself go" adds an almost divine approval to the pursuit of love, highlighting that natural instincts and emotions should not be suppressed. The anticipation of romance is further accentuated, as the night is described as “swell” for love—a quintessential phrase that captures the essence of romance. This sentiment is particularly compelling, suggesting that nature itself is facilitating this special moment, encouraging the characters to embrace their desires and fully indulge in this exquisite experience. The recurring refrain, emphasizing the words "delightful, delicious, and de-lovely," constructs an atmosphere where the mere act of walking together becomes a euphoric celebration of love and companionship.

In a transition that adds depth to the playful nature of the lyrics, the singer expresses a compelling desire to sing—a spontaneous urge that exemplifies the joy and inspiration love can evoke. However, this sentiment quickly shifts to a humorous frustration with the craft of songwriting itself. The music becomes a source of comical tension, as the singer battles with their creative urges while grappling with the imperfections of their verses, described metaphorically as being struck down or “crucified.” The phrase "the Tin-Pantithesis of a melody" hints at a juxtaposition of expectations versus reality in the creative process, implying that while love may inspire, the challenge of articulating it through music can be cumbersome and uncertain. There’s an underlying admission that the artistic endeavor can sometimes detract from the simple joy that the night embodies.

Ultimately, the song concludes by returning to the original themes of romance and beauty under the night sky. The repetition of familiar lines reinforces the notion that these feelings are timeless and universal, inviting listeners to bask in the nostalgic warmth of love. The playful plea for the beloved to affirm their affection and engagement by mirroring the enthusiasm of the singer deepens the intimacy of the interaction. The playful yet earnest appeals for sweet expressions of love resonate with the overarching theme of the song: that love—like the enchanting night and vibrant nature surrounding them—is truly “de-lovely.” Through its enchanting lyrics and cheerful tone, "It's De-Lovely" serves as a delightful reminder of love's ability to elevate ordinary moments into something extraordinary, where every shared glance and touch unfolds into a beautiful melody all its own.