With Her Head Tucked Underneath Her Arm

Rudy Vallee and His Connecticut Yankees' song "With Her Head Tucked Underneath Her Arm" is a darkly humorous take on the tragic story of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. The song narrates the ghostly wanderings of Anne Boleyn in the Tower of London, where she was executed. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Anne's ghost, carrying her severed head under her arm, haunting the corridors of the Bloody Tower. This macabre image is both eerie and comical, as the song blends historical tragedy with a touch of dark humor.

The song's lyrics highlight Anne Boleyn's desire for revenge against King Henry VIII, who had her executed. The ghost of Anne Boleyn is depicted as a persistent and vengeful spirit, coming back to haunt the king and remind him of his wrongdoing. The lyrics mention how she disrupts Henry's ghostly gatherings and even scares the sentries, who mistake her head for a football. This blend of historical references and playful imagery creates a unique and memorable narrative.

The song also touches on the absurdity of Anne's situation, with lines about her catching a cold in the drafty corridors and the difficulty of blowing her nose with her head tucked under her arm. These humorous elements add a layer of irony to the tragic story, making the song both entertaining and thought-provoking. Rudy Vallee's performance, with its lively and upbeat melody, contrasts with the grim subject matter, further enhancing the song's unique charm. Through this blend of humor and history, "With Her Head Tucked Underneath Her Arm" offers a creative and engaging retelling of Anne Boleyn's ghostly legend.