Introduction
Greetings, readers! Are you ready to delve into the captivating world of "Thoroughly Modern Millie"? This beloved musical, brimming with infectious melodies and witty lyrics, has enchanted audiences for decades. In this article, we’ll embark on an in-depth journey through the lyrics of "Thoroughly Modern Millie," exploring the characters’ dreams, aspirations, and misadventures.
The Journey of Millie Dillmount
"Not for the Life of Me"
The musical opens with Millie Dillmount, a young woman from Kansas, arriving in New York City with dreams of becoming a stenographer. Despite her naivety, Millie’s independent spirit shines through in the lyrics of "Not for the Life of Me." She declares that she will not conform to the traditional expectations of marriage and domesticity: "I’ll be a bachelor girl, free and easy, / Not for the life of me."
"Jimmy"
Millie’s adventure takes an unexpected turn when she falls head over heels for Jimmy Smith, a charming but unwed mother. In the song "Jimmy," Millie expresses her newfound feelings and the turmoil that accompanies them. She questions the societal norms that condemn single motherhood, singing, "I never thought I’d love someone who’s a mother, / But I can’t escape my heart, it says I should love you."
The Adventures of Miss Dorothy Brown
"Forget About the Boy"
Millie’s best friend, Miss Dorothy Brown, is a strong and independent woman who initially advises Millie to "Forget About the Boy." In this song, Dorothy urges Millie to focus on her career and not let romance cloud her judgment. She proclaims, "There are plenty more fish in the sea, / So forget about the boy who’s not for you."
"The Speed Test"
Later, Dorothy becomes smitten with Trevor Graydon, a wealthy and eligible bachelor. In the hilarious song "The Speed Test," she impulsively agrees to test his typing speed. The lyrics showcase Dorothy’s determination and competitive spirit, as she races against him in a high-stakes typing battle.
The Intrigues of Mrs. Meers
"The House of Morgan"
The musical’s main antagonist, Mrs. Meers, runs a seemingly respectable employment agency but secretly abducts young women and sells them to the Far East. In the sinister song "The House of Morgan," Mrs. Meers lures unsuspecting victims into her clutches, promising them a life of glamour and riches.
"The Nutty Nook"
Millie and Mrs. Meers’ paths cross at the "Nutty Nook," a seedy cabaret where Millie undercover to investigate the agency. In the song "The Nutty Nook," Mrs. Meers reveals her true nature, declaring that "morals are for other people." The lyrics convey her manipulative and ruthless character.
Lyric Table Breakdown
| Song Title | Lyrics | Themes Explored |
|---|---|---|
| "Not for the Life of Me" | "I’ll be a bachelor girl, free and easy" | Independence, nonconformity |
| "Jimmy" | "I never thought I’d love someone who’s a mother" | Love, societal norms |
| "Forget About the Boy" | "There are plenty more fish in the sea" | Focus, resilience |
| "The Speed Test" | "I’ll give you a speed test with pleasure" | Competition, determination |
| "The House of Morgan" | "You’ll be a star at ‘Chez Morgan’" | Deception, manipulation |
| "The Nutty Nook" | "Morals are for other people" | Ruthlessness, manipulation |
Conclusion
Readers, we hope this comprehensive guide to the "Thoroughly Modern Millie" lyrics has immersed you in the musical’s enchanting world. From Millie’s dreams to Dorothy’s adventures and Mrs. Meers’ machinations, the lyrics capture the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and explore timeless themes of love, independence, and societal expectations.
For more engaging articles on musical theater and other captivating topics, be sure to check out our other articles. Thank you for joining us on this lyrical journey!
FAQ about “Thoroughly Modern Millie” Lyrics
1. What does "thoroughly modern" mean?
Answer: It means being completely up-to-date and in line with the latest trends and social norms.
2. Who is Millie?
Answer: Millie is a young woman from a small town who comes to New York City to find adventure and fame.
3. What is the song "Thoroughly Modern Millie" about?
Answer: The song is about Millie’s journey and her determination to embrace the modern ways of city life.
4. What does the lyric "Out of the hatbox, into the fray" mean?
Answer: It means that Millie is ready to jump headfirst into the exciting and fast-paced world of New York City.
5. What is the significance of the cigarette in the song?
Answer: The cigarette represents Millie’s desire to be seen as a sophisticated and independent woman.
6. What does the lyric "I’m a New York flapper, I’m a Broadway baby" mean?
Answer: It shows Millie’s ambition to become a successful actress and performer in New York City.
7. What is the message of the song?
Answer: The song encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and to pursue their dreams, no matter how modern or unconventional they may seem.
8. Who wrote the lyrics to "Thoroughly Modern Millie"?
Answer: Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen
9. When was the song released?
Answer: 1967
10. What is the tempo of the song?
Answer: It has a fast-tempo and upbeat rhythm.
