Lyrics: Two For The Price Of One
He had what you might call a trivial occupation He cleaned the platforms of the local railway station With no romance in his life Sometimes he wished he had a wife He read the matrimonial advertising pages The cries for help from different people, different ages But they had nothing to say At least not until the day When something special he read This is what it said: If you dream of the girl for you Then call us and get two for the price of one We're the answer if you feel blue So call us and get two for the price of one If you dream of the girl for you (If you are dreaming of someone who might be right for you) Then call us and get two for the price of one (Why don't you call us and you'll get two for the price of one) We're the answer if you feel blue (We may be the answers to your problem, a chance with we two) So call us and get two for the price of one (Why don't you call us and you'll get two for the price of one) He called the number and a voice said, "Alice Whiting" The voice was husky and it sounded quite exciting He was amazed at his luck The purest streak of gold he'd struck He said, "I read your ad, it sounded rather thrilling I think a meeting could be mutually fulfilling Why don't we meet for a chat The three of us in my flat I can't forget what I read" This is what it said: If you dream of the girl for you Then call us and get two for the price of one We're the answer if you feel blue So call us and get two for the price of one If you dream of the girl for you (If you are dreaming of someone who might be right for you) Then call us and get two for the price of one (Why don't you call us and you'll get two for the price of one) We're the answer if you feel blue (We may be the answers to your problem, a chance with we two) So call us and get two (Why don't you call us and you'll get two) For the price of one... She said, "I'm sure we must be perfect for each other And if you doubt it you'll be certain when you meet my mother"
Delving Into the Lyrics: A Witty Take on Loneliness
Everyday Life and Hidden Longings
“Two For The Price Of One” by ABBA tells the story of a man who leads a simple, even monotonous life as a railway station platform cleaner. There’s an undercurrent of loneliness and yearning for companionship, a sentiment that resonates with many who feel stuck in routine and longing for something—or someone—to make life more exciting. The protagonist’s hopefulness is palpable as he sifts through matrimonial ads, searching for something—anything—to pierce the monotony.
The Twist of the Personal Ad
The song takes a humorous turn when the protagonist stumbles upon an ad promising “two for the price of one.” This clever phrase injects a sense of hope and excitement into his otherwise uneventful life. The recurring chorus, with its catchy invitation and playful parenthetical asides, encapsulates the blend of optimism and skepticism that often accompanies ventures into dating through unconventional means.
Unexpected Outcomes and ABBA’s Signature Irony
When the protagonist calls the number, he’s greeted by Alice Whiting, whose alluring voice sparks his imagination. The anticipation builds as he dreams of a thrilling encounter. However, the punchline comes in the final lines, when Alice assures him they’ll be perfect for each other—especially when he meets her mother. This twist reveals the true meaning behind “two for the price of one,” serving up a gentle, tongue-in-cheek jab at the realities of dating and the unexpected surprises that can come with it.
Lighthearted Social Commentary
ABBA masterfully combines light humor with sharp observations about loneliness, hope, and the quirks of seeking love. The song’s playful narrative and memorable chorus ensure it stands out as a unique entry in ABBA’s catalogue, showcasing their ability to blend catchy pop with clever storytelling.
Song Credits
- Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
- Release Year: 1981
- Label: Polar Music