Tenderly
Ella Fitzgerald
A Gentle Embrace: The Tenderness of Love in Ella Fitzgerald's 'Tenderly'
Ella Fitzgerald's 'Tenderly' is a beautiful and evocative song that captures the delicate and intimate moments of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a serene evening where nature itself seems to mirror the tenderness between two lovers. The evening breeze caressing the trees and the trembling trees embracing the breeze symbolize the gentle and mutual affection shared by the couple. This natural imagery sets a tranquil and romantic scene, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the softness of the moment.
As the song progresses, the focus shifts to the lovers themselves. The line 'Then you and I came wandering by and lost in a sigh were we' suggests a sense of timelessness and deep connection, where the outside world fades away, leaving only the two of them in their shared experience. The shore being kissed by sea and mist further emphasizes the theme of gentle, almost ethereal love, highlighting the beauty and purity of their emotions.
The climax of the song comes with the lines 'Your arms opened wide and closed me inside. You took my lips you took my love so tenderly.' Here, the physical embrace and the act of sharing a kiss symbolize the ultimate expression of their love. The use of the word 'tenderly' throughout the song reinforces the idea of a love that is gentle, caring, and deeply affectionate. Ella Fitzgerald's smooth and emotive vocal delivery enhances the song's intimate atmosphere, making 'Tenderly' a timeless ode to the softness and beauty of love.