It Ain't Necessarily So

George Gershwin's song 'It Ain't Necessarily So' is a playful yet thought-provoking piece that challenges the literal interpretation of biblical stories. The song, featured in the opera 'Porgy and Bess,' uses a series of well-known biblical tales to question the veracity and moral lessons often taken for granted. By repeating the phrase 'It ain't necessarily so,' the song encourages listeners to approach these stories with a healthy dose of skepticism and critical thinking.

The lyrics recount several biblical narratives, such as David and Goliath, Jonah and the whale, and Moses in the stream. Each story is presented with a sense of wonder and incredulity, suggesting that these tales, while culturally significant, may not be entirely factual. The playful language and scat singing interludes add a layer of humor, making the song both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. The line 'To get into Hebben / Don' snap for a sebben!' humorously critiques the idea of easy salvation, advocating instead for a life lived with integrity and caution.

Gershwin's composition also touches on the theme of longevity with the story of Methuselah, who lived for nine hundred years. The song questions the value of such a long life if it lacks meaningful human connections, particularly romantic ones. This adds another layer to the song's message, emphasizing the importance of a life well-lived over mere longevity. Through its witty lyrics and engaging melody, 'It Ain't Necessarily So' invites listeners to question traditional narratives and think critically about the stories that shape their beliefs and values.