The song "Miss Clara" by Bobbie Gentry tells the story of a young man who receives a letter from a woman named Clara. The letter informs him that his book is overdue, and Clara plans to come by and pay the five cent fine. However, the young man becomes infatuated with Clara and instead of caring about the fine, he becomes more interested in knowing her name and getting to know her better. He addresses Clara as Miss Clara and wonders if it would be too bold to call her Clare. He describes her as being like the cover of a magazine and even more beautiful than the stars he has seen on the silver screen. The young man recalls seeing Clara at the public library, where she stamped his book. Since that moment, he can't get her out of his mind. He expresses his desire to get to know her and plans for a future together, mentioning a honeymoon and his graduation next June. The song continues with the young man fantasizing about Clara meeting his parents and enjoying a cozy cottage on a farm in Delaware. He imagines his dad sharing stories about the Great Depression, while his mom gives Clara a recipe. The young man envisions a happy life with Clara if she would only let him call her Clare. The lyrics are filled with playful wordplay and catchy melodies, showcasing Bobbie Gentry's talent as a storyteller. The song captures the excitement and longing of a young man infatuated with a woman he has only just glimpsed, dreaming of a future together.
