One For My Baby
the Diamonds Lyrics

The Diamonds' song "One For My Baby" is a poignant ballad about a man who is unable to shake off the memory of a past love. The opening line "I've got you under my skin" is an immediate indication of this - the woman he is referring to is fixed deeply within him, and he cannot seem to rid himself of her. He goes on to say "So deep in my heart, you're really a part of me," which shows that not only is she a memory, but he is so intertwined with her presence in his life that he cannot separate the two. He is admitting that his feelings for this woman have become a part of his identity and he cannot escape them.

The second verse is where he confesses to trying to resist his feelings, but ultimately succumbing to them. He says "I've tried so not to give in, I've said to myself, this affair never will go so well, but why should I try to resist when darling I know so well, I've got you under my skin." He knows it is futile to try and block out this woman because she is so much a part of him. He is telling himself to be practical and see the reality of the situation, but he cannot help how he feels because of the deep connection he has with her.

The song's bridge has the man speaking to the bartender, asking him to set them up again, and to listen to a little story he has. It is a moment of melancholy indulgence, with the man knowing full well that the love that haunts him will never return. He knows that she will always be a part of him, despite the warnings of his friends and his better judgment telling him to move on with his life. The song's haunting melody perfectly compliments these lyrics, showing the sadness of a love that will never materialize.