Meaning of Make Believe by Frank Sinatra

The Frank Sinatra song "Make Believe" is a timeless classic that explores the theme of love and longing. Set against the backdrop of Jerome Kern's memorable score, the song takes listeners on a journey of make-believe and the power of imagination. It delves into the bittersweet emotions that come with pretending to love someone and the desire to find solace in a world of fantasy.One standout lyric in the song is "We could make believe I love you, only make believe that you love me." This line speaks to the idea of creating an illusion in a relationship. It highlights the notion of embracing a temporary happiness by pretending to have deep feelings for someone. This theme of temporary escape from reality is crucial in understanding the emotional depth of the song.Another poignant line is "Might as well make believe our lips are blending in a phantom kiss or two or three." This lyric delves into the longing for intimacy and connection, even if it is in a make-believe world. It emphasizes the intense desire to escape reality and find solace in a world where fantasies can come true.The theme of longing and unrequited love is further explored when Janie sings, "Might as well make believe I love you, for to tell the truth, I do." This line encapsulates the internal struggle between honesty and desperate longing. It suggests that even though the love might not be real, the feeling of affection exists, adding another layer of complexity to the theme of make-believe.Additionally, the song invites listeners to reflect on the power of imagination. It suggests that sometimes, living in a world of pretend can be a source of temporary comfort and happiness. The use of the phrase "phantom kiss" highlights the ghostly nature of imagination and the power it holds to shape our emotions.Overall, "Make Believe" explores the themes of love, longing, and the ability to find solace in a world of make-believe. Through the captivating lyrics and Jerome Kern's remarkable score, the song takes listeners on a journey that explores the complexities of human emotions. It reminds us of the power of imagination, while also shedding light on the transient nature of relationships built on illusions. Whether it's finding comfort in a phantom kiss or pretending to feel deeply, the song ultimately leaves us questioning the fine line between reality and make-believe in matters of the heart.