Meaning of Soliloquy by Frank Sinatra

In Frank Sinatra's iconic song "Soliloquy," from the musical "Carousel," we are invited into the inner thoughts and dreams of a soon-to-be father. The overarching theme of the song is the anticipation and hopes that the narrator has for his unborn child, revealing a complex mix of pride, determination, and a deep desire to provide them with a better life.One standout lyric in the song is when the narrator states, "I'll teach him to wrassle and dive through a wave." This lyric conveys the theme of passing down wisdom and teaching important life skills. It symbolizes the narrator's desire to instill resilience and the ability to navigate through challenges in his child. This theme reflects the narrator's own experiences and the struggles he faced in life, as he wants to equip his child with the necessary tools to overcome obstacles.Another compelling lyric is, "He can sit on his tail or work on a rail with a hammer, hammering spikes!" This line speaks to the theme of embracing one's individuality and pursuing their passions and preferences. The narrator contemplates various career paths for his child, emphasizing that as long as his child is content and finds joy in their chosen profession, he will support them wholeheartedly. This theme showcases the narrator's unconditional love and acceptance, acknowledging that happiness and purpose come in different forms for each individual.The lyric, "No fat-bottomed, flabby-faced, pot-bellied, baggy-eyed bastard'll boss him around," introduces a theme of empowerment and independence. Here, the narrator expresses his determination that his child will not succumb to the control or manipulation of others. This theme highlights the narrator's desire to raise a strong-willed individual who will stand up for themselves and not be easily swayed or intimidated. It also reflects the narrator's own experiences, perhaps having been subjected to such mistreatment, and his desire to protect his child from experiencing the same.As the song progresses, an unexpected twist occurs when the narrator questions what he would do if his child turns out to be a girl. This shift introduces a fresh theme of gender roles and the importance of celebrating differences. The narrator grapples with the idea of having a daughter, worrying about how he can provide for her and protect her in a world that may not always treat women fairly. This theme explores the narrator's deep love for his child, regardless of their gender, and his commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being.Ultimately, all of these themes tie back to the overarching theme of the song – the unwavering love and determination a parent feels towards their child. Whether it is teaching them valuable life lessons, supporting their passions, empowering them to be independent, or celebrating their uniqueness, the narrator's hopes and dreams revolve around providing a better future for their child."Soliloquy" is a heartfelt and introspective portrayal of a father's aspirations for his unborn child. Through imaginative and unexpected themes, the song captures the wide range of emotions and dreams that come with parenthood. It reminds us of the deep love and commitment parents have towards their children, and the lengths they are willing to go to ensure their happiness and success in life.