Easy To Love

Cole Porter's 'Easy To Love' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the wistful yearning that accompanies it. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and admiration for someone who, unfortunately, does not reciprocate these feelings. The narrator is acutely aware of the futility of their emotions, acknowledging that they are 'wasting precious time' by hoping for a love that seems impossible. This sense of hopelessness is a common theme in many of Porter's songs, reflecting the complexities and often painful nature of love.

The song's central metaphor revolves around the idea that the object of the narrator's affection would be 'so easy to love.' This phrase encapsulates the simplicity and naturalness of the narrator's feelings, suggesting that loving this person should be effortless and fulfilling. However, the reality is starkly different, as the narrator laments that their love is unreturned. The lyrics 'I'm sure you hate to hear that I adore you, dear' highlight the painful awareness that their feelings might be unwelcome or even burdensome to the other person.

Culturally, 'Easy To Love' fits within the broader context of the Great American Songbook, a collection of the most important and influential American popular songs of the 20th century. Cole Porter, known for his sophisticated lyrics and complex melodies, often wrote about love in a way that was both deeply personal and universally relatable. This song, with its blend of melancholy and admiration, is a testament to Porter's ability to capture the nuanced emotions of love and longing. The imagery of 'keeping every homefire burning' and being 'carefree together' paints a vivid picture of the idealized life the narrator dreams of, making the reality of their unrequited love all the more poignant.