You Never Can Tell

Chuck Berry's 'You Never Can Tell' is a vibrant narrative of young love and the unexpected paths life can take. The song tells the story of a teenage couple, Pierre and his beloved mademoiselle, who marry despite their youth and the implied skepticism of the older generation. The repeated phrase 'C'est la vie, say the old folks' serves as a refrain throughout the song, highlighting the theme of life's unpredictability and the wisdom of experience that acknowledges this fact.

The lyrics paint a picture of the couple's modest beginnings, furnishing an apartment with budget items and filling their coolerator with simple conveniences like TV dinners and ginger ale. Despite these humble details, the song exudes a sense of joy and contentment, suggesting that love and happiness are not contingent on material wealth. Berry's storytelling is filled with specific cultural references, such as the 'two room Roebuck sale' and the 'souped-up jitney,' which ground the song in the era of its release, the early 1960s.

The song also celebrates the couple's appreciation for music, with their 'hi-fi phono' and 'seven hundred little records' of various genres, symbolizing the joy and cultural richness in their lives. The narrative culminates in a trip to New Orleans in their 'cherry red '53,' marking their anniversary and the enduring strength of their relationship. Through this joyful tale, Berry conveys a message of optimism and resilience, suggesting that love can thrive under any circumstances and that life's surprises can often lead to its most cherished moments.