"Take Five" is a song originally composed by Paul Desmond and performed by the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Al Jarreau has done a vocal rendition of this song. The song is about a person who is trying to catch the attention of someone they are interested in. It's an invitation for that person to take a break from their busy life and spend some time with the singer. The lyrics suggest that the two individuals have some sort of connection as their eyes often meet, but they never speak. It is described as a pantomime because their interactions are non-verbal. The singer feels excitement and tingles down to their feet when the person smiles, but it is described as a discreet smile. The lyrics also imply that the person being addressed is being polite or reserved, and the singer suggests that it would be better for them to be more open and engage in a conversation. They mention offering a light, which could refer to lighting a cigarette or simply starting a conversation. The singer believes that having a conversation could be mutually enjoyable and urges the person not to be so polite. Overall, "Take Five" is a plea for the other person to spend some time and engage with the singer, rather than just exchanging glances and being polite. The song conveys a longing for a deeper connection and suggests that breaking the silence and starting a conversation would be beneficial for both parties involved.
