Multiplication

Bobby Darin's song 'Multiplication' is a playful and whimsical exploration of the natural world's tendency to reproduce and multiply. Through a series of charming and humorous metaphors, Darin illustrates how the process of multiplication is a fundamental aspect of life, spanning across different species and generations. The song's light-hearted tone and catchy melody make it an enjoyable listen, while its lyrics offer a deeper reflection on the continuity of life and the instinctual behaviors that drive it.

The song opens with the imagery of bees and butterflies, creatures often associated with nature and reproduction. Darin uses these insects to set the stage for his broader commentary on multiplication, suggesting that the act of coming together and creating new life is a universal and timeless game. The line 'When you see a gentleman bee round a lady bee buzzin'' humorously captures the courtship rituals that precede reproduction, emphasizing the inevitability of multiplication in the natural world.

As the song progresses, Darin extends his metaphors to other animals and even human behavior. The playful line 'I say one and one is five, you can call me a silly goat' highlights the seemingly magical nature of reproduction, where the sum of two individuals can result in a larger, thriving family. The reference to minks and mink coats, as well as the coy behavior of girls in front of boys, further underscores the idea that multiplication is a game played by all creatures, driven by instinct and the desire to perpetuate the species.

Darin's clever use of language and relatable scenarios makes 'Multiplication' a delightful commentary on the natural world's reproductive habits. The song's recurring refrain, 'Multiplication, that's the name of the game,' serves as a reminder that this process is an essential and enduring part of life, connecting each generation to the next in an unbroken chain of existence.