Mad About The Boy

Dinah Washington's 'Mad About The Boy' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil it brings. The song captures the essence of longing and the irrational nature of infatuation. Washington's soulful delivery adds depth to the lyrics, making the listener feel the sleepless nights and the internal conflict of being enamored with someone unattainable. The repeated admission of being 'mad about the boy' underscores the helplessness and vulnerability that often accompany such feelings.

The lyrics also delve into the fantasy and escapism that come with unrequited love. The reference to the 'silverscreen' suggests that the object of her affection is a movie star, a figure who is both idealized and distant. This adds a layer of complexity, as the singer is aware of the impracticality and the 'traces of the cad' in her infatuation. Yet, she cannot help but be drawn to the allure and charm that this figure represents, highlighting the irrationality and persistence of her feelings.

Moreover, the song touches on the theme of self-awareness and the internal struggle between reason and emotion. The singer acknowledges that she is not a 'fool girl' or a 'school girl' experiencing her first crush, which adds a sense of maturity and depth to her predicament. Despite her awareness, she is caught in a 'diversity of misery and joy,' feeling 'quite insane and young again.' This juxtaposition of emotions captures the essence of unrequited love, where the pain of longing is intertwined with the fleeting moments of joy that the mere thought of the beloved brings.