"Fine and Mellow" is a song performed by Billie Holiday, which tells the story of a relationship with a man who doesn't love her the way she deserves. The lyrics describe how her "man" treats her terribly and is the "lowest man" she's ever seen, but when he shows her love, it's fantastic. Love is portrayed as causing one to do things they know are wrong, like drinking and gambling, and can be compared to a faucet that can turn on and off unexpectedly. Despite wanting to be home every day if her man treated her right, the song's protagonist acknowledges that he is so mean to her, she believes he will eventually drive her away. The song is a narrative on how love can be wonderful, but also cause suffering and pain when it's not reciprocated or treated with care. Overall, "Fine and Mellow" is a beautiful yet bittersweet song that speaks to the complexities and challenges of romantic relationships.
