Down In The Depths

Cole Porter's song "Down In The Depths" paints a vivid picture of loneliness and despair, set against the backdrop of a bustling city. The protagonist finds herself in a luxurious high-rise, surrounded by the vibrant life of the city below. Despite the opulence and the million neon lights, she feels isolated and desolate. The contrast between her elevated physical position and her emotional low point is stark, highlighting the theme of loneliness amidst abundance.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's sense of abandonment and heartbreak. She is dressed in her finest attire, yet she feels deserted and depressed. The imagery of nightclubs filled with dancing crowds and bars packed with couples enjoying themselves serves to emphasize her solitude. The phrase "Down in the depths of the ninetieth floor" is a powerful metaphor for her emotional state, suggesting that despite being high above the city, she feels as low as one can get emotionally.

Porter also touches on themes of unrequited love and the futility of material wealth in the face of emotional emptiness. The protagonist laments that the one she desires has chosen someone else, rendering her wealth and status meaningless. The comparison to the janitor's wife, who has a fulfilling love life, underscores the idea that true happiness cannot be bought. The song captures the universal feeling of heartache and the realization that love and companionship are far more valuable than any material possession.