Down in the Depths
Solitude in the City: Ella Fitzgerald's Ninetieth Floor Lament
Lyrics
With a million neon rainbows burning below me
Observing the vibrant and colorful city lights from a high vantage point.
And a million blazing taxis raising a roar
Noticing numerous taxis making loud sounds as they move through the city.
Here I sit, above the town
Being situated above the urban landscape.
In my pet-palliated gown
Wearing a luxurious gown associated with pets or companions.
Down in the depths
Expressing a sense of being in a low emotional state.
Of the ninetieth floor
Specifically located on the ninetieth floor of a building.
While the crowds in all the nightclubs punish the parquet
While people in nightclubs enjoy themselves, there is a feeling of isolation.
And the bars are packed with couples calling for more
Bars are crowded with couples seeking more enjoyment.
I'm deserted and depressed
Feeling abandoned and unhappy.
In my regal-eagle nest
Alone in a majestic and lofty dwelling.
Down in the depths
Reiterating a sense of emotional depth on the ninetieth floor.
Of the ninetieth floor
Reinforcing the feeling of isolation on a high floor.
When the only one you wanted wants another
Dealing with unrequited love, where the desired person is interested in someone else.
What's the use of swank and cash in the bank galore?
Questioning the value of wealth and sophistication when love is unattainable.
Why, even the janitor's wife
Even someone in a seemingly ordinary position has a fulfilling love life.
Has a perfectly good love life
Contrasting the speaker's loneliness with the janitor's wife's contentment.
And here I am, facing tomorrow
Facing the uncertainty of the future.
Alone in my sorrow
Experiencing solitude and sadness.
Down in the depths
Reiterating the emotional depth on the ninetieth floor.
Of the ninetieth floor
Emphasizing the elevated location of the emotional distress.
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