Anything Goes

Ella Fitzgerald's rendition of 'Anything Goes' is a vibrant commentary on the shifting moral and social landscapes of the 20th century. Originally written by Cole Porter for the 1934 musical of the same name, the song captures the essence of a society in flux, where traditional values are being upended and new norms are taking their place. The lyrics reflect a world where the once shocking is now mundane, and the boundaries of acceptable behavior are constantly being pushed. This is evident from the opening lines, which reference the Puritans' shock upon landing at Plymouth Rock, juxtaposed with the idea that modern shocks would be too much for them to handle.

The song delves into the changing standards of decency and propriety, highlighting how what was once considered scandalous, like a glimpse of stockings, is now commonplace. The line 'Good authors too, who once knew better words, now only use four-letter words' underscores the erosion of linguistic decorum, suggesting that even literature is not immune to the broader cultural shifts. The repeated refrain 'Anything goes' serves as both a lament and a celebration of this new, more permissive world.

Ella Fitzgerald's smooth, jazzy interpretation adds a layer of sophistication to the song, making it both a critique and an embrace of modernity. Her performance captures the playful yet poignant nature of the lyrics, reflecting the ambivalence many feel about societal changes. The song's enduring popularity speaks to its universal themes and its ability to resonate across different eras. It reminds us that while times may change, the tension between tradition and progress is a constant in human history.