Category: Uncategorized

Lyrics: Suzy-Hang-Around

Suzy was nine and I was ten

Right at the time when boys like to think they're men

She used to follow us at school

We really thought that she was a little fool

And one day we said to her

We don't want to hurt you girl

But you'd better

Look for a friend of your own, Suzy-hang-around

Better come back when you're grown, Suzy-hang-around

Nobody wants you around here and that's for sure

So get off our playground and stay away

That's all that we've got to say

Suzy-hang-around

Suzy went home to Mama's arms

Mama said "Look, she's never done you no harm

So get off her back and let her be

Why can't you play together in harmony?"

We really didn't know what to say

But as soon as she went away

We laughed and said

Look for a friend of your own, Suzy-hang-around

Better come back when you're grown, Suzy-hang-around

Nobody wants you around here and that's for sure

So get off our playground and stay away

That's all that we've got to say

Suzy-hang-around

Yes you'd better

Look for a friend of your own, Suzy-hang-around

Better come back when you're grown, Suzy-hang-around

Nobody wants you around here and that's for sure

So get off our playground and stay away

That's all that we've got to say

Suzy-hang-around

Childhood Dynamics and the Pain of Exclusion

“Suzy-Hang-Around” by ABBA is a poignant exploration of childhood interactions, focusing on the theme of exclusion and innocence. The song narrates a story from the perspective of a young boy, recalling the time when he and his friends dismissed Suzy, a younger girl who wished to join their group. The lyrics delve into the everyday realities of playground dynamics, where lines are often drawn not out of malice, but out of misunderstanding and the desire to fit in.

Lyrics Analysis: Innocence, Rejection, and Growing Up

From the very first lines, the song sets the scene: “Suzy was nine and I was ten / Right at the time when boys like to think they’re men.” These words underline the transitional period of late childhood, a time when children start forming cliques and asserting their independence. Suzy’s attempts to join in are met with resistance, not because of anything she’s done, but simply because she doesn’t quite fit the group’s expectations. The chorus, with its repeated refrain “Suzy-hang-around,” carries a bittersweet tone, highlighting the pain of being told to find friends elsewhere.

In the second verse, Suzy’s mother intervenes, urging understanding and kindness: “Why can’t you play together in harmony?” This moment brings a touch of wisdom and compassion, contrasting with the children’s thoughtless exclusion. Yet, the lesson is lost on the group, who quickly return to their previous attitude as soon as Suzy leaves. The song captures the complexities of childhood socialization, where empathy is still developing and exclusion can leave lasting marks.

The Universal Experience of Belonging

“Suzy-Hang-Around” resonates with listeners because it taps into a universal experience—the longing to belong and the pain of being left out. ABBA’s storytelling shines through, using simple language to evoke nostalgia and reflection. The song serves as a gentle reminder to look back at our own youthful actions with empathy and to foster inclusion wherever possible.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1973
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Waterloo by ABBA

My, my

At Waterloo Napoleon did surrender

Oh, yeah

And I have met my destiny in quite a similar way

The history book on the shelf

Is always repeating itself

Waterloo, I was defeated, you won the war

Waterloo, promise to love you forevermore

Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

My, my

I tried to hold you back, but you were stronger

Oh, yeah

And now it seems my only chance is giving up the fight

And how could I ever refuse?

I feel like I win when I lose

Waterloo, I was defeated, you won the war

Waterloo, promise to love you forevermore

Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

So how could I ever refuse?

I feel like I win when I lose

Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

Woo-ooh-ooh-ooh

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

Woo-ooh-ooh-ooh

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Analyzing the Lyrics of “Waterloo”

A Historical Metaphor for Love

“Waterloo” by ABBA cleverly uses the famous historical event—the Battle of Waterloo—as a metaphor for surrendering in love. The song’s narrator draws a parallel between Napoleon’s defeat and their own experience of falling for someone, suggesting that just as Napoleon could not evade his fate, neither can the singer resist the pull of love.

Love as a Battle

Throughout the song, phrases like “I was defeated, you won the war” and “couldn’t escape if I wanted to” paint love as a form of battle. However, the defeat here is not bitter; instead, it is embraced. The narrator recognizes that surrendering to love feels more like a victory than a loss. This theme is reinforced by lines such as “I feel like I win when I lose,” highlighting the joy and liberation found in giving in to genuine emotion.

Cycles and Destiny

The reference to “the history book on the shelf / is always repeating itself” suggests that the experience of falling in love—and perhaps feeling powerless in its presence—is a timeless, universal story. The song presents the idea that love, like history, has patterns that people inevitably follow, making the narrator’s surrender feel both fated and shared across time.

Final Reflections

“Waterloo” stands out for its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, making the theme of surrender feel joyful rather than tragic. The song’s ability to turn a significant historical defeat into a celebration of love’s inevitability is part of what makes it a pop classic.

Song Credits

“Waterloo” was written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson. The song was released in 1974 on the Polar Music label. It famously won the Eurovision Song Contest that year and became one of ABBA’s signature hits.

Lyrics: Ring Ring (U.S. Remix)

I was sitting by the phone
I was waiting all alone
Baby by myself I sit and wait and wonder about you
It’s a dark and dreary night
Seems like nothing’s going right
Won’t you tell me, honey, how can I go on here without you?

Yes, I’m down and feeling blue
And I don’t know what to do, oh-oh

Ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?
Ring, ring, the happiest sound of them all
Ring, ring, I stare at the phone on the wall
And I sit all alone impatiently
Won’t you please understand the need in me
So, ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?
Oh, ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?

You were here and now you’re gone
Hey, did I do something wrong?
I just can’t believe that I could be so badly mistaken
Was it me or was it you?
Tell me, are we really through?
Won’t you hear me cry and you will know that my heart is breaking

Please forgive and then forget
Or maybe darling better yet, oh-oh

Ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?
Ring, ring, the happiest sound of them all
Ring, ring, I stare at the phone on the wall
And I sit all alone impatiently
Won’t you please understand the need in me
So, ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?
Oh, ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?

Oh-oh, ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?
So, ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?
Oh-oh, ring, ring, why don’t you…

Exploring the Heartfelt Longing in “Ring Ring (U.S. Remix)”

The Agony of Waiting

“Ring Ring (U.S. Remix)” by ABBA beautifully captures the emotional turmoil of waiting for a loved one to reach out. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone sitting by the phone, surrounded by darkness, feeling abandoned and unsure. This sense of anticipation and longing is universal, resonating with anyone who has waited anxiously for a call that never comes. The repetition of “ring, ring, why don’t you give me a call?” emphasizes the desperation and hope that a single phone call could bring happiness and relief.

Self-Doubt and Regret

The song delves deeper into the narrator’s emotional state as they question what went wrong. Lines like “Hey, did I do something wrong?” and “Was it me or was it you?” express the confusion and self-doubt that often follow a breakup or period of silence. The narrator’s vulnerability is palpable, revealing a heart that is breaking and longing for forgiveness, reconciliation, or even just closure.

The Simplicity of Connection

At its core, “Ring Ring (U.S. Remix)” is about the basic human need for connection. The ringing of the phone becomes a symbol of hope—a simple sound that carries the promise of renewed happiness. The lyrics highlight how something as ordinary as a phone call can mean everything to someone who is feeling lonely and misunderstood. ABBA’s catchy melody and heartfelt delivery make the song both relatable and enduring, inviting listeners to reflect on their own moments of longing and hope.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1973
Label: Polar Music / Atlantic Records (U.S. release)

Lyrics: Honey Honey (Swedish Version)

Honey honey, underbara, ah-ha, honey honey

Honey honey, söta rara, ah-ha, honey honey

Dom viskar så söta ord
Du är deras allt på jord
Det där ska du inte tro
Bara ta't me' ro
Sånt är bara smicker

Honey honey, inte illa, ah-ha, honey honey

Honey honey, flicka lilla, ah-ha, honey honey

Den kvarnen som mal är tom
Och det är en ynkedom
Nej, killar som snackar så
Litar ingen på

Det brukar va' dom som sviker
Som ivrigast hållit me'
Men vet man det bara
Så kan man nog klara det

Tro inte på önskesmicker
Och passa dej vad du gör
Och håll dej med benen på jorden
Ja, vad du än hör

Honey honey, viskar alla, ah-ha, honey honey

Honey honey, lätt att falla, ah-ha, honey honey

Men tro bara det du vill
Och lägg inte märke till
Det söta du alltid hör
Som så många gör

Tro inte på smicker
Nej, passa dej vad du gör

Ja, håll dig med benen på jorden
Ja, vad du än hör

Honey honey, underbara, ah-ha, honey honey

Honey honey, söta rara, ah-ha, honey honey

Men socker är inte allt
Så ta't me' en nypa salt
Och är du förstståndig se'n
Tar du inte en
Nej, då tar du må

Understanding the Lyrics: A Closer Look at “Honey Honey”

Sugar-Coated Words and Caution

“Honey Honey (Swedish Version)” by ABBA is a playful yet insightful song that explores the world of sweet talk and flirtation. The lyrics are filled with affectionate phrases and charming repetitions of “honey honey,” but beneath the surface, there’s a strong message of caution. The narrator warns against believing flattering words and empty promises, especially those whispered by admirers. Through lines like “Tro inte på smicker” (Don’t believe in flattery), ABBA cleverly reminds listeners that not everything sweet is sincere.

Staying Grounded Amid Attention

The song addresses the realities that come with being admired and the importance of staying grounded. The advice given is practical: “håll dej med benen på jorden” (keep your feet on the ground), reinforcing the idea that one should not be swept away by praise or affection that may not be genuine. There’s a gentle humor in the way the lyrics handle the topic, using metaphors like “socker är inte allt” (sugar isn’t everything) and suggesting to “ta’t me’ en nypa salt” (take it with a grain of salt).

Timeless Wisdom Wrapped in Pop

This Swedish-language version of “Honey Honey” encapsulates timeless wisdom about relationships and self-worth. It encourages listeners, particularly young women, to trust their instincts, believe in themselves, and not let outside opinions dictate their feelings or actions. The song’s optimistic melody and catchy chorus make the message light and memorable, blending ABBA’s signature pop sound with meaningful advice.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1974
Label: Polar Music

“Waterloo (German Version)” Lyrics

Wie du

Mich angesehen hast, war ich schon verloren

Und nun

Bin ich verliebt bis über beide Ohren und ich will

Nur deine Gefangene sein
Ab heute bist du für mich mein!

Waterloo, Keiner nahm mich so im Sturm wie du
Waterloo, Ich kam davon wie Napoleon
Waterloo, Ich gebe auf und ich komm' zu dir
Waterloo, Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'

Zuerst

Hab' ich geglaubt, ich muss dir widerstehen
Du hast
Um mich gekämpft und ich hab' eingesehen mit der Zeit

Es ist doch viel schöner zu zweit
Als unbedingt Sieger zu sein

Waterloo, Keiner nahm mich so im Sturm wie du
Waterloo, Ich kam davon wie Napoleon
Waterloo, Ich gebe auf und ich komm' zu dir
Waterloo, Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'

Es ist doch viel schöner zu zweit
Du sollst mein Eroberer sein

Waterloo, Ich gebe auf und ich komm' zu dir
Waterloo, Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'
Waterloo, Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier'

Analysis and Interpretation

Love as a Battlefield

“Waterloo (German Version)” by ABBA transforms the famous historical event into a metaphor for surrendering to love. The lyrics describe the emotional journey of someone who initially tries to resist falling in love, only to realize the futility of resistance. The reference to Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo cleverly parallels the narrator’s own “defeat” in the face of overwhelming affection.

The Irresistible Force of Romance

From the very beginning, the narrator confesses to being lost the moment they were looked at by their beloved. This instant connection quickly leads to being “head over heels in love.” The verses highlight a sense of vulnerability and a willingness to become “your prisoner,” showing the depth of their emotional surrender. The repeated line, “Auch wenn ich dabei mein Herz verlier’” (Even if I lose my heart in the process), underscores the risk and intensity of true love.

Victory in Surrender

The chorus drives home the idea that sometimes the greatest victory is in giving up control and embracing love. By likening their surrender to Napoleon’s loss at Waterloo, the narrator suggests that love can be both overwhelming and liberating. The song also touches on the joy of partnership, declaring that being together is “much nicer than being the winner at any cost.” Ultimately, “Waterloo” celebrates the courage it takes to let go and let love win.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Original Release Year: 1974
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Hasta Mañana (Spanish Version)

Donde quedó el verano
Aquel que nos unió
Donde se fue, yo no lo sé
Si aun mi amor sigue por ti viviendo

Hasta mañana te sabré esperar
Dime tú, el lugar
Es que la fuerza de un amor así
Sabe triunfar siempre a pesar de todo

Hasta mañana te sabré esperar
Junto a ti quiero estar
Escríbeme, y te lo explico
Perdóname, te lo suplico
Hasta mañana dime
Hasta mañana mi amor

Donde quedó nuestro sueño
Aquel que se escapó
Donde se fue, yo no lo sé
Si aun mi amor sigue por ti viviendo

Hasta mañana te sabré esperar
Dime tú, el lugar
Es que la fuerza de un amor así
Sabe triunfar siempre a pesar de todo

Hasta mañana te sabré esperar
Junto a ti quiero estar
Escríbeme, y te lo explico
Perdóname, te lo suplico
Hasta mañana dime
Hasta mañana mi amor

Hasta mañana te sabré esperar
Junto a ti quiero estar
Escríbeme, y te lo explico
Perdóname, te lo suplico
Hasta mañana dime
Hasta mañana mi amor

Exploring the Heartfelt Longing in “Hasta Mañana”

A Song of Nostalgia and Hope

“Hasta Mañana (Spanish Version)” by ABBA captures the bittersweet feelings of longing and hope that often accompany love’s uncertainties. The lyrics open by reminiscing about a cherished summer that once united two people. The protagonist questions where that magical time has gone, admitting they still hold deep affection for their partner, even as the future remains uncertain. This sense of nostalgia sets the tone for the entire song, drawing listeners into a world of heartfelt memories.

The Strength of Enduring Love

Throughout the chorus, the promise “hasta mañana te sabré esperar” (until tomorrow, I will wait for you) becomes a powerful refrain. It speaks to the enduring nature of true love, suggesting that genuine feelings can withstand time and distance. The repeated plea to the beloved to write and communicate, combined with requests for forgiveness, highlights vulnerability and a willingness to mend any rift. The song beautifully expresses how love’s strength lies in patience and the hope of reunion.

Acceptance and Forgiveness

The verses also explore the pain of lost dreams and the uncertainty of what lies ahead. Despite sadness and regret, the lyrics focus on forgiveness and the possibility of a new beginning. The repeated “perdóname, te lo suplico” (forgive me, I beg you) shows a deep desire for reconciliation. Ultimately, “Hasta Mañana” is a song that balances sorrow with optimism, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who has experienced separation and still believes in love’s power.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Original Release Year: 1974 (Spanish version released in 1980)
Label: Polar Music / Discos CBS

Lyrics: Waterloo (Swedish Version) by ABBA

Jo, jo - vid Waterloo Napoleon fick ge sig

Men, men - sitt öde kan man möta på så många skilda sätt

Själv känner jag, sen jag mött dig
Historien upprepar sig

Waterloo, jag är besegrad, nu ger jag mig
Waterloo, lovar med nöje att älska dig
Waterloo, allting känns rätt, och det är min tro
Waterloo, du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo

Jo, jo - man värjer sig och fäktas I det längsta
Men, men - mot känslor kämpar gudarna förgäves har man sagt

Det är som jag hörde en sång
Jag tror det är kärlek på gång

Waterloo, så har man funnit sin överman
Waterloo, mäktig och väldig och stark är han
Waterloo, allting känns rätt, och det är min tro
Waterloo, du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo

Det är som jag hörde en sång
Jag tror det är kärlek på gång

Waterloo, allting känns rätt, och det är min tro
Waterloo, du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo
Waterloo, du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Waterloo, du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo
Waterloo, du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo

Understanding the Lyrics: Love and Destiny at “Waterloo”

The Historical Metaphor

ABBA’s “Waterloo” cleverly draws on the famous historical event where Napoleon faced his ultimate defeat. In this Swedish-language version, the lyrics open by referencing Napoleon’s surrender at Waterloo. However, rather than focusing on the battlefield, the song uses this pivotal moment as a metaphor for surrendering to love. The singer acknowledges that just as Napoleon met his fate, we all encounter our destinies in different ways—sometimes unexpectedly, sometimes inevitably.

Surrendering to Love

The chorus is a jubilant declaration: “Waterloo, I am defeated, now I surrender.” Instead of defeat being something negative, it’s celebrated as the moment the narrator gives in to love. The repeated promise to love the other person, and the refrain that “everything feels right,” gives the song a sense of joy and acceptance. The surrender isn’t to an adversary, but to a deep and powerful emotion.

Fighting (and Embracing) Fate

Verses describe how people often resist their feelings, fighting “to the very end.” Yet, as the lyrics suggest, even the gods cannot fight against true feelings forever. There is a sense that love is an unstoppable force—one that, once it arrives, is impossible to ignore. The narrator compares hearing about love to hearing a song, something familiar yet transformative, and recognizes that love has finally arrived.

Finding a Worthy Opponent

The theme of finding one’s “overman” or match is woven throughout. In love, as at Waterloo, the narrator has met someone strong, mighty, and irresistible. The repeated phrase “du är mitt öde, mitt Waterloo” (“you are my destiny, my Waterloo”) reinforces the idea that falling in love is both a fateful and life-changing surrender.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1974
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Sitting In The Palmtree

See me sitting in the palmtree

Looking down at people passing by

Sitting here no-one can harm me

They just stare at me and wonder why

No need to bother, I'm gonna stay up here

Whatever happens, I won't let no-one near

Until you tell me, Jeanie Jeanie on my mind, won't you please

You really love me, Jeanie Jeanie you're so fine, yes you are now

And in the evening, when the sun goes down

I'll be the bluest of men in this town

'Cause I love you, Jeanie Jeanie on my mind



See me sitting in the palmtree

Waiting for those little words from you

People laugh and point their fingers

Like I was a monkey at the zoo

But I will stay here, among my coconuts

So you will know dear, you're everything I've got

Now won't you tell me, Jeanie Jeanie on my mind



Winds blow, stars glow, I see a light in a window

Dark trees, soft breeze, carry my message to her please



See me sitting in the palmtree

Feeling angry at the silly crowd

No-one else but you can calm me

You should know by now I'm far too proud

I need to show you, I've got my feelings too

You shouldn't treat me like you always do

So won't you tell me, Jeanie Jeanie on my mind, won't you please

You really love me, Jeanie Jeanie you're so fine, yes you are now

And in the evening, when the sun goes down

I'll be the bluest of men in this town

'Cause I love you, Jeanie Jeanie on my mind

Jeanie Jeanie you're so fine

Jeanie Jeanie on my mind

Jeanie Jeanie you're so fine

Jeanie Jeanie on my mind

Jeanie Jeanie you're so fine

[fade]

Song Meaning and Interpretation

A Playful Take on Heartache

“Sitting In The Palmtree” by ABBA offers a whimsical yet poignant take on the emotions of love and longing. The narrator finds solace perched in a palmtree, physically and emotionally distancing himself from a world that doesn’t understand his devotion to a woman named Jeanie. This unusual setting gives the song a playful and lighthearted feel, even as it explores the depths of unrequited love.

Isolation as a Statement

The imagery of sitting in the palmtree is central to the song’s message. The protagonist removes himself from the crowd, seeking refuge where “no-one can harm me.” Despite the laughter and stares of people passing by, he remains steadfast, almost stubbornly waiting for Jeanie’s affection. This act is both a shield from heartbreak and a declaration of his feelings, highlighting his vulnerability and pride.

Unwavering Devotion and Vulnerability

Throughout the song, the repeated pleas to Jeanie reveal a deep longing for reciprocation. The protagonist’s world revolves around her, and he can’t be soothed or understood by anyone else. The lyrics convey a sense of hope mixed with melancholy, especially as evening falls and he becomes “the bluest of men in this town.” This underscores the universal experience of waiting and yearning for love, wrapped in ABBA’s signature melodic charm.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1974
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Nina, Pretty Ballerina

Every day in the morning on her way to the office
You can see as she catches a train
Just a face among a million faces
Just another woman with no name
Not the girl you'd remember but she's still something special
If you knew her I am sure you'd agree
'Cause I know she's got a little secret
Friday evening she turns out to be...

Nina, pretty ballerina
Now she is the queen of the dancing floor
This is the moment she's waited for
Just like Cinderella
(just like Cinderella)
Nina, pretty ballerina
Who would ever think she could be this way
This is the part that she likes to play
But she knows the fun would go away
If she would play it every day

So she's back every morning to her work at the office
And another week to live in a dream
And another row of early mornings
In an almost never-ending stream
Doesn't talk very often, kind of shy and uncertain
Everybody seems to think she's a bore
But they wouldn't know her little secret
What her Friday night would have in store...

Nina, pretty ballerina
Now she is the queen of the dancing floor
This is the moment she's waited for
Just like Cinderella
(just like Cinderella)
Nina, pretty ballerina
Who would ever think she could be this way
This is the part that she likes to play
She would like to play it every day

Nina, pretty ballerina
Now she is the queen of the dancing floor
This is the moment she's waited for
Just like Cinderella
(just like Cinderella)
Nina, pretty ballerina
Who would ever think she could be this way
This is the part that she likes to play

[fade]

The Secret Life of Nina: Unveiling the Everyday Heroine

“Nina, Pretty Ballerina” tells the enchanting story of an ordinary woman with an extraordinary secret. By day, Nina blends into the crowd, commuting to her office, seemingly just another face in the sea of city life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her reserved, almost invisible persona—”just another woman with no name,” “kind of shy and uncertain,” and someone “everybody seems to think she’s a bore.” Yet, beneath this quiet exterior lies a vibrant spirit waiting for her moment to shine.

Transformation on the Dance Floor

The chorus brings Nina’s transformation to life. On Friday evenings, she sheds her routine and becomes “the queen of the dancing floor.” The comparison to Cinderella is apt, highlighting Nina’s magical transformation from the mundane to the magnificent, if only for a night. The dance floor becomes her stage, where she can express her true self, feel beautiful, and embrace the joy she’s been waiting for all week. This secret double life adds depth to her character, reminding us that everyone has hidden dreams and moments of glory.

Living for the Moment

Although Nina loves her time in the spotlight, the lyrics also acknowledge the fleeting nature of these moments. She knows that “the fun would go away if she would play it every day.” This bittersweet truth adds a layer of realism to the story. Nina’s magical Fridays wouldn’t be as special if they became routine. Her weekly escape is a celebration of individuality and the power of self-expression, even if it’s only temporary.

Relatability and Inspiration

Nina’s story resonates because it reflects the inner world of many people. We all have dreams, passions, or sides of ourselves that rarely see the light of day. The song encourages listeners to embrace their own inner “ballerina,” to find moments to break free from routine, and to recognize that beneath the ordinary, there is often something truly extraordinary.

Song Credits

“Nina, Pretty Ballerina” was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. The song was performed by Swedish pop group ABBA and was released in 1973 as part of their debut album, Ring Ring. The track was released under the Polar Music label.

Lyrics: Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)

Do you remember the first time, and all of your sweet sweet talk
Ain't heard it a lot since then love
Now look at that guy, he's making me cry
He leaves everybody and he only says goodbye
But if I would have to choose I wouldn't let you go
Just give it some more time and you will see our love will grow
Darling I know

We gotta have patience
Love isn't just a sensation
Some of the time it gets rough
Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Giving love is a reason for living
But a few things can be tough
Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)

From the first moment I saw you I've treated you like a queen
I've given you lots of presents
Now listen to that, just look at that cat
You'd think he was an angel but he's talking through his hat
But if I would have to choose I wouldn't let you go
Just give it some more time and you will see our love will grow
Darling I know

We gotta have patience
Love isn't just a sensation
Some of the time it gets rough
Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Giving
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Love is a reason for living
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
But a few things can be tough
Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)

Patience
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Love isn't just a sensation
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Some of the time it gets rough
Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Giving
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
Love is a reason for living
(Sweet sweet, our love is bitter-sweet)
But a few things can be tough
Love isn't easy but it sure is hard enough

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The Realities of Love: An Analysis

Bittersweet Emotions and Honest Reflections

“Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)” by ABBA stands out as a relatable and honest portrayal of romantic relationships. The lyrics reflect on the early days of love, recalling “sweet sweet talk” and affectionate gestures that often fade with time. The narrator observes the changes in their relationship and the challenges that arise, acknowledging both the joys and difficulties of staying together.

Patience and Perseverance in Relationships

One of the central messages of the song is the importance of patience. The repeated lines, “We gotta have patience / Love isn’t just a sensation,” remind listeners that lasting love requires effort, understanding, and resilience. The chorus emphasizes that love, while rewarding, is also demanding—”Love isn’t easy but it sure is hard enough.” This honest admission resonates with anyone who has navigated the ups and downs of a committed partnership.

The Bittersweet Nature of Love

Throughout the song, the phrase “our love is bitter-sweet” is used as a refrain, highlighting the duality of happiness and hardship. The lyrics suggest that giving love is essential to a meaningful life, yet also recognize that “a few things can be tough.” This balance between sweetness and struggle is what makes ABBA’s depiction of love so universally appealing.

Commitment and Hope for Growth

Despite the challenges described, the narrator expresses a strong sense of commitment: “But if I would have to choose I wouldn’t let you go / Just give it some more time and you will see our love will grow.” There is a hopeful outlook that, with patience and effort, love can endure and flourish. The song ultimately delivers a message of perseverance, encouraging couples to weather the hard times and cherish the good.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1973
Label: Polar Music