The Agony of Indecision in Love

Ella Fitzgerald's song "Undecided" delves into the emotional turmoil caused by a partner's indecisiveness in a romantic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the frustration and confusion experienced when one person is unable to commit, leaving the other in a state of constant suspense. The repeated phrases like "First you say you do and then you don't" and "Now you want to play and then it's no" highlight the erratic behavior of the indecisive partner, which creates a sense of instability and emotional distress for the singer.

The metaphor of "sitting on a fence" is particularly poignant, as it captures the feeling of being stuck in a limbo, unable to move forward or backward. This imagery is further emphasized by the lines "'Cause you keep me in suspense, and you know it," suggesting that the partner is fully aware of the emotional strain they are causing. The singer's plea for clarity—"If you've got a heart and if you're kind, then don't keep us apart, make up your mind"—underscores the deep desire for resolution and the pain of being left in uncertainty.

Ella Fitzgerald's soulful delivery adds an extra layer of depth to the song, making the listener feel the raw emotion behind the lyrics. The song's timeless theme of love and indecision resonates with anyone who has experienced the heartache of an uncommitted relationship. The closing lines, "Now if you don't love me I wish you'd say so, I love ya so much honey, I just got to know," encapsulate the desperation for honesty and the need to move past the ambiguity, whether it leads to a continuation or an end of the relationship.

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  1. It's A Lovely Day Today
  2. You've Changed
  3. Alone Together
  4. Autumn In New York
  5. I Get a Kick Out Of You
  6. Can't We Be Friends?
  7. How Long Has This Been Going On?
  8. It Don't Mean A Thing (if it Ain't Got That Swing)
  9. Prelude To a Kiss
  10. My One And Only
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