Music is powerful. It can excite, proclaim, lament, soothe, and even heal the heart. During times of uncertainty, music can help sustain us. The music of the 1940s helped people living through World War II cope with the constant fear, loss, and suffering caused by the war. That music can still help people living in difficult times today.
One of my favorite songs from the era was “It’s Only a Paper Moon.” Even though the song was first published in 1933 for a Broadway play, it wasn’t made famous until the later years of War World II. The talented voices of Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald helped propel it in popularity.
The lyrics are what make me love the song. The song speaks of how we need people in our lives to love us and believe in us. When they do, we can accomplish and endure the unimaginable. The melody is also light, cheerful, and calming to a troubled spirit. Listen along to Nat King Cole’s version, and see if you agree! Be patient through the long intro. The song might just soothe your heart today.
“It’s a Barnum and Bailey world, just as phony as it can be. But it wouldn’t be make- believe if you believe in me,” she hummed to herself as Carson’s face blurred and then disappeared. They all believed in her, and now, she would believe in herself.
Songbird, Chapter 48