When I Get Low I Get High

Ella Fitzgerald's song 'When I Get Low I Get High' is a testament to resilience and the human spirit's ability to rise above adversity. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman facing numerous challenges, from financial struggles to personal heartbreak. Despite these hardships, she finds a way to lift herself up, both emotionally and perhaps even through substances, as suggested by the phrase 'I get high.' This duality of feeling low and finding a way to elevate oneself is a central theme in the song.

The song begins with the protagonist lamenting the loss of her fur coat, a symbol of her financial decline. Yet, she quickly shifts her focus to the fact that she still has a dollar, indicating her determination to find a silver lining in her situation. This attitude is further emphasized when she mentions her man walking out on her. Instead of wallowing in sorrow, she warns that he should be careful if they meet again, showcasing her strength and resilience.

Culturally, the song reflects the struggles many faced during the Great Depression, a time when financial instability and personal hardships were rampant. Ella Fitzgerald's delivery of the song, with its upbeat tempo and jazzy undertones, adds a layer of irony and defiance to the lyrics. The repeated line 'When I get low, I get high' serves as a mantra for overcoming difficulties, whether through emotional resilience or other means. The song encapsulates the spirit of finding joy and strength even in the darkest times, making it a timeless anthem of perseverance.