Give Me the Simple Life
mel tormé & george shearing Lyrics
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Why mess around with strife?
I never was cut out to step and strut out.
Give me the simple life.
Some find it pleasant dining on pheasant.
Those things roll off my knife,
Just serve me tomatoes, and mashed potatoes,
A cottage small is all I'm after,
Not one that's spacious and wide.
A house that rings with joy and laughter
And the ones you love inside.
Some like the high road, I like the low road,
Free from the care and strife.
Sounds corny and seedy, but yes, indeed-y,
Give me the simple life.
The lyrics of Mel Tormé's song "Give Me The Simple Life" express a longing for a more uncomplicated and unencumbered existence. The singer is disinterested in the drama and frustration that can come with striving for success, and instead craves a humble, contented life.
The first verse sets the tone for the rest of the song, with the singer rejecting the idea of worrying and battling through life. He sees no point in actively seeking out strife and turmoil when a simpler path is available. The next lines speak to the singer's plain tastes; he doesn't want to bother with fancy gourmet food like pheasant. He's happy with basic, comforting staples like tomatoes and mashed potatoes. The chorus reinforces the idea that the singer doesn't need much to be happy, just a small house filled with loved ones.
The second verse drives home the point that the singer gets joy from the simple things in life. He doesn't need grandeur or extravagance to be content. He's happy taking the less-traveled path, as long as it's free from worry and hardship. Even though the singer recognizes that his desires might seem "corny and seedy," he's still passionate about them. The song is an ode to finding joy in everyday moments and situations.
Line by Line Meaning
I don't believe in frettin' and grievin',
I refuse to stress out and feel sad,
Why mess around with strife?
Why bother with conflict and trouble?
I never was cut out to step and strut out.
I was not meant to show off and impress others.
Give me the simple life.
I prefer a modest and uncomplicated lifestyle.
Some find it pleasant dining on pheasant.
Some enjoy fancy meals and exotic food.
Those things roll off my knife,
However, I am content with simple and familiar food.
Just serve me tomatoes, and mashed potatoes,
Just give me basic and common dishes, like tomatoes and mashed potatoes.
Give me the simple life.
I am happy with a life that is not flashy or excessive.
A cottage small is all I'm after,
I am satisfied with a little house.
Not one that's spacious and wide.
I do not need a large or extravagant home.
A house that rings with joy and laughter.
I want a home that is filled with happiness and laughter.
And the ones you love inside.
A home is where you can be with your loved ones.
Some like the high road, I like the low road,
Some people prefer an ambitious and challenging path, but I prefer an easy and simple one.
Free from the care and strife.
I want to be away from stress and trouble.
Sounds corny and seedy, but yes, indeed-y,
It may sound old-fashioned or uncool, but it is what I truly want.
Give me the simple life.
I am content with a humble and straightforward life.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: HARRY RUBY, RUBE BLOOM
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind