“What a Wonderful World” is a timeless classic performed by Louis Armstrong, released in 1967. Despite facing initial resistance from the president of ABC Records, the song eventually gained popularity, especially in the United Kingdom where it reached the top of the pop chart.
The song was inspired by a desire to offer a hopeful, optimistic message during a time of significant social and political challenges. It celebrates the simple beauties of life and human connection, aiming to remind listeners of the inherent goodness in the world and the potential for a better future.
In this article, we will delve into the lyrics of this beloved song and analyze the profound meaning it holds.
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“What a Wonderful World” Lyrics Meaning
[Verse 1]
I see trees of green, red roses too
I see them bloom for me and you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
In this verse, Armstrong observes the natural beauty around him, specifically the greenery of trees and the vibrancy of red roses. The blooming flowers symbolize life and growth, shared by everyone. This reflection leads him to appreciate the world, emphasizing its wonder and beauty.
[Verse 2]
I see skies of blue and clouds of white
The bright blessed days, the dark sacred nights
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Here, Armstrong continues to marvel at the natural world, noting the blue skies and white clouds.
He contrasts the “bright blessed days” with the “dark sacred nights,” suggesting that both day and night have their own unique beauty and significance. This reinforces the idea that the world is wonderful in all its aspects, both light and dark.
[Bridge]
The colors of the rainbow
So pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces
Of people going by
I see friends shaking hands, saying, “How do you do?”
They’re really saying, “I love you”
In the bridge, Armstrong shifts his focus from nature to human interactions. He draws a parallel between the beauty of a rainbow in the sky and the diversity and warmth of people he encounters.
The act of friends shaking hands and greeting each other is seen as an expression of love and connection.
This section highlights the beauty of human relationships and the kindness that people can show to one another.
[Verse 3]
I hear babies cry, I watch them grow
They’ll learn much more
Than I’ll ever know
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Yes, I think to myself
What a wonderful world
In the final verse, Armstrong reflects on the future, symbolized by the crying and growing babies. He acknowledges that the next generation will learn and experience more than he ever will, which fills him with hope and wonder.
This verse underscores the continuity of life and the potential for growth and discovery, further cementing his appreciation for the world.
Deeper Meaning Behind “What a Wonderful World”
Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” is a song that celebrates the simple, everyday beauties of life and the inherent goodness in the world.
The song was written and recorded in 1967, during a period marked by the Vietnam War, civil rights struggles, and widespread social unrest in America. The creators, Bob Thiele and George David Weiss, intended the song to serve as a soothing, optimistic counterpoint to the prevailing negativity and chaos of the time.
The song was designed to be an anthem of peace, love, and appreciation for the simple joys of life. It aimed to remind people of the beauty in the world and the potential for a better future, even amidst adversity.
Armstrong, who had experienced significant hardships throughout his life, including racial discrimination, found the song’s message deeply resonant. His unique voice and delivery added a layer of poignancy and authenticity, making the song’s message even more powerful.
The lyrics celebrate everyday wonders like trees, roses, skies, and human interactions. This focus on simple, universal experiences helped the song connect with a wide audience, transcending cultural and generational boundaries.
The song faced resistance from Larry Newton, the president of ABC Records, who disliked its slow, sentimental nature and refused to promote it. Despite this, Armstrong and the songwriters believed in its message and went ahead with the recording.
Although it initially performed poorly in the United States, “What a Wonderful World” found success in other countries and later gained renewed popularity through its inclusion in the 1987 film Good Morning, Vietnam. It has since become one of Armstrong’s most iconic songs, celebrated for its timeless message of hope and positivity.
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