Dear Ruby

Carmen McRae's song "Dear Ruby" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The lyrics tell the story of Ruby, a woman who is grappling with the departure of a loved one. The song opens with a tender plea for Ruby to hold back her tears, acknowledging the deep pain she feels from her love's absence. The repetition of phrases like "I know he's gone" and "You're all alone" underscores the depth of her sorrow and the sense of abandonment she experiences.

The song then shifts to a recollection of happier times, when Ruby's love brought music and joy into her life. This nostalgic reflection serves as a stark contrast to her current state of despair. The line "You said you'd rather die than say goodbye" highlights the intensity of Ruby's feelings and the difficulty of letting go. However, the song also carries a message of hope and resilience. Despite the pain, there is an assurance that Ruby will eventually find the strength to carry on. The repeated encouragement that "you'll sing his song, you'll carry on" suggests that the memory of her love will continue to inspire and uplift her, even in his absence.

Carmen McRae's soulful delivery adds an extra layer of emotion to the lyrics, making the listener feel Ruby's heartache and eventual healing. The song is a beautiful reminder of the power of love and music to heal wounds and provide solace in times of grief. It speaks to the universal experience of loss and the journey towards acceptance and resilience. Through Ruby's story, McRae captures the essence of human vulnerability and the enduring hope that allows us to move forward, even after profound loss.