Closer And Closer And Closer

Gene Wilder's song 'Closer And Closer And Closer' is a tender exploration of the gradual process of falling in love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals slowly overcoming their initial shyness and fear, moving towards a deeper connection. The song begins with the imagery of hiding behind trees, trembling like in winter, symbolizing the initial hesitance and vulnerability that often accompanies the early stages of a romantic relationship. As time progresses, the characters in the song start to feel more at ease, taking small steps towards each other, both literally and emotionally.

The repetition of 'closer and closer and closer' emphasizes the incremental nature of their growing intimacy. Each verse describes a series of small, yet significant, advances: a glance, a blush, a laugh, and eventually, a touch. These moments are depicted as milestones in their journey towards love, each one bringing them a little nearer to each other. The song beautifully captures the excitement and nervousness of these early interactions, where every small gesture feels monumental.

Wilder's use of phrases like 'a Christmas eve midsummer day' adds a whimsical, almost magical quality to the narrative, suggesting that the culmination of their growing closeness will be a moment of profound significance and joy. The song concludes with a vision of a future where their love continues to grow, marked by daily acts of giving and living fully. This progression from tentative beginnings to a deep, enduring connection is a universal theme, resonating with anyone who has experienced the slow, beautiful unfolding of love.