Why Don’t You Do Right?

Lana Del Rey's rendition of 'Why Don’t You Do Right?' is a powerful and evocative plea for accountability and responsibility. The song, originally popularized by Peggy Lee in the 1940s, is given a modern twist by Del Rey's haunting and sultry voice. The lyrics tell the story of a woman addressing a man who has squandered his wealth and opportunities, urging him to take responsibility for his actions and provide for her as well. The repeated refrain, 'Why don't you do right, like some other men do?' underscores her frustration and disappointment in his inability to live up to societal expectations of masculinity and provision.

The song's opening line, 'You had plenty money, 1922,' sets the stage for a narrative of lost potential and wasted opportunities. The reference to 1922 evokes a sense of nostalgia and a bygone era, suggesting that the man once had the means to succeed but failed to capitalize on them. The woman's demand for him to 'get out of here and get me some money too' highlights her dependence on him and her frustration with his lack of initiative. This dynamic reflects broader themes of gender roles and economic dependency, as well as the societal pressures placed on men to be providers.

Throughout the song, the woman chastises the man for his poor decisions and lack of foresight. Lines like 'If you had prepared twenty years ago, you wouldn't be a-wanderin' from door to door' emphasize the consequences of his actions and the importance of planning for the future. The song's final verses reveal the woman's disillusionment with the man, as she laments that 'all you got to offer me's a drink of gin.' This poignant moment underscores the depth of her disappointment and the emotional toll of his failures. Del Rey's emotive delivery adds a layer of vulnerability and raw emotion to the song, making it a compelling exploration of responsibility, disappointment, and the complexities of human relationships.