Everything Happens to Me
Frank Sinatra
The Melancholic Charm of 'Everything Happens to Me'
Frank Sinatra's 'Everything Happens to Me' is a poignant exploration of misfortune and unrequited love, wrapped in the smooth, melancholic tones that Sinatra is renowned for. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who feels perpetually unlucky, as if the universe has singled him out for a series of unfortunate events. From the mundane inconveniences like rain on a golf day and complaints from neighbors to more significant setbacks like illness and missed opportunities, the protagonist's life seems to be a continuous string of bad luck.
The song delves deeper into the emotional realm when it touches on love. The protagonist initially believes that love might be the antidote to his string of bad luck. However, this hope is quickly dashed when his romantic efforts are met with rejection. The line 'I've mortgaged all my castles in the air' is particularly telling, as it signifies the protagonist's realization that his dreams and hopes have been built on fragile foundations. The use of metaphors like 'mortgaged castles' and 'postage due' adds a layer of depth to the narrative, highlighting the futility and cost of his unreciprocated love.
Sinatra's delivery of the song adds to its melancholic charm. His smooth, emotive voice captures the essence of a man resigned to his fate, yet still yearning for a break from his perpetual misfortune. The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they can't catch a break, making it a timeless piece that speaks to the universal human experience of dealing with life's disappointments.