How High Is The Moon Lyrics

Okay, let's talk about a classic. A song that's been crooned, swooned over, and swung to for decades. I'm talking about How High The Moon.

We all know it, right? That jazzy tune that seemingly everyone and their grandmother has covered. But have you really listened to the lyrics? I mean, really listened?

Because, and this might be controversial, I have a theory. A theory that involves… well, frankly, a slightly obsessive level of devotion to celestial heights. And possibly a slight case of avoiding down-to-earth problems.

The Moon as Escape Route

The first line sets the stage: "Somewhere there's music, how faint the tune." Okay, fair enough. Everyone craves a little escapism. We all want to find our happy place, right?

But then it gets intense. "Somewhere there's heaven, how high the moon." Hold on a second. You're skipping right over Earthly solutions and aiming straight for the cosmos? Bold move, my friend. Bold move.

It’s not just a pleasant vista; it’s described with the language of longing. Are we talking love song, or a space mission?

And this is where my unpopular opinion comes in. I think the song, beautiful as it is, is secretly about a person who's really, really good at ignoring their problems.

Like, picture this: dirty dishes piling up in the sink? Don't worry about it! Just gaze longingly at the moon! Bills overdue? Pfft! The moon's got your back (metaphorically, of course. The moon doesn't actually pay your bills. I think.)

Reaching for the Stars... Or Just Running Away?

The chorus doubles down: "How high the moon? How high? If I could reach the stars, I'd pull one down for you." Aww, that's sweet. Romantic, even. But also… completely impractical.

I mean, let's be realistic. Even if you could reach the stars (which, spoiler alert, you probably can't), pulling one down wouldn't exactly be a smooth move. I imagine it would cause quite a bit of havoc.

It's this grand, unattainable gesture. It screams "I'm so in love, I'll do anything... except maybe take out the trash."

And the lyrics keep repeating the “how high” question. It’s almost as if the speaker is trying to reassure themselves that it is too far. What could be the alternative: that we could achieve anything if we put our minds to it?

A Timeless Tune, A Timeless Distraction

Look, I'm not saying How High The Moon isn't a beautiful song. It is! The melody is gorgeous. The harmonies are heavenly (pun intended!). Ella Fitzgerald's version is iconic. Les Paul’s guitar work is groundbreaking.

But underneath the dreamy melodies, I hear a hint of escapism. A yearning for something more, something other than the here and now.

Maybe that's why it's endured for so long. Because who hasn't wanted to escape their problems by gazing at the night sky? Who hasn't wished they could just float away on a moonbeam?

Maybe that’s also why it makes sense to analyze this song. Because it gives us a glimpse of something profound about the human condition.

So, the next time you hear How High The Moon, take a moment to really listen to the lyrics. And ask yourself: are they singing about love, or about a deeply ingrained need to avoid reality?

Just a thought. No need to get defensive. Unless... you're also a chronic moon-gazer with a pile of unopened mail. In which case, I totally understand. We can form a support group. We'll meet on the moon.

P.S. I still think the lyrics could use a little more about paying the electricity bill. Just saying.