Tenderly

Billie Holiday's 'Tenderly' is a beautiful and evocative song that captures the delicate and intimate moments of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a serene evening where nature itself seems to mirror the tenderness between two lovers. The evening breeze and trembling trees are described as caressing and embracing each other, setting a soft and romantic backdrop for the unfolding love story. This natural imagery creates a sense of harmony and tranquility, emphasizing the gentle and soothing nature of the emotions being expressed.

As the song progresses, the focus shifts to the lovers themselves. The line 'Then you and I came wandering by' suggests a sense of aimless, carefree wandering, which is often associated with the early stages of love. The lovers are 'lost in a sigh,' indicating a moment of pure, unspoken connection and contentment. The imagery of the shore being kissed by sea and mist further enhances the theme of gentle, tender affection. This metaphor suggests a natural, effortless coming together, much like the meeting of the sea and the shore.

The climax of the song is reached with the lines 'Your arms opened wide and closed me inside / You took my lips, you took my love so tenderly.' Here, the physical embrace and the act of kissing symbolize the deep emotional connection and the tender love shared between the two individuals. Billie Holiday's soulful and emotive delivery of these lines adds an extra layer of depth and sincerity to the song, making it a timeless ode to the gentle and tender moments of love. The song's simplicity and elegance lie in its ability to convey profound emotions through subtle and delicate imagery, making 'Tenderly' a classic representation of romantic love.