Nice Work If You Can Get It
The Ruby Braff George Barnes Quartet 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 "Nice Work If You Can Get It" by The Ruby Braff George Barnes Quartet speak about the elusive search for happiness and fulfillment in life. The first verse talks about how people who chase money or fame are not guaranteed a happy life. In fact, it implies that such people might lead unfulfilling lives. The second verse presents an alternate route to happiness- falling in love. The lyrics suggest that "falling in love" is the best kind of work and the most enjoyable one can do. The chorus then goes on to paint a picture of two people in love- holding hands, strolling together, and enjoying each other's company under a starry sky. The song ends with an appeal to listeners to seek out this source of happiness for themselves and share their secrets with the world.


The lyrics of "Nice Work If You Can Get It" are a commentary on the human condition. They suggest that material success and fame are not necessarily the keys to happiness. Instead, the song suggests that love is the real source of happiness in life. The lyrics also paint a picture of a simpler time, where love and relationships were not complicated by the distractions of modern life. Finally, the song acts as an inspiration to listeners to seek out love and happiness for themselves.


Line by Line Meaning

The man who only lives for making money
Living life only for earning money


Lives a life that isn't necessarily sunny
Happiness or joy can be uncertain for such a person


Likewise the man who works for fame
Similarly, a person who works only for fame


There's no guarantee that time won't erase his name
No assurance that the person's legacy will remain forever


The fact is, the only work that really brings enjoyment
The truth is, only work that brings happiness


Is the kind that is for girl and boy meant
The work meant for love partners is the only enjoyable one


Fall in love and you won't regret it
Falling in love is a decision that won't disappoint


That's the best work of all, if you can get it
Love is the most rewarding work of all, if attainable


Holding hands at midnight
Holding hands at night


'Neath a starry sky
Beneath a sky full of stars


Nice work if you can get it
Having such an experience is great, but it's rare


And you can get it if you try
It's possible to attain if one makes an effort


Strolling with the one girl
Walking slowly with a loved one


Sighing sigh after sigh
Breathing long deep breaths and reveling in the moment


Just imagine someone
Visualize being with someone


Waiting at the cottage door
Looking forward to welcoming your significant other home


Where two hearts become one
A place where two individuals unite their feelings and souls


Who could ask for anything more?
It's the perfect situation, nothing can be better


Loving one who loves you
Being in a mutual loving relationship


And then taking that vow
Making a life-long commitment to each other


And if you get it, won't you tell me how?"
If you acquire such love, please explain how you achieved it




Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: GEORGE GERSHWIN, IRA GERSHWIN

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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