"Lush Life" is a song originally written by Billy Strayhorn, but Julie London's rendition adds her soulful touch to it. The lyrics describe the emotions of loneliness and disillusionment in life and love. The song depicts a person who feels isolated and uncertain about life, comparing their current state to the previous year when everything seemed much more certain. They find life to be dreadful and monotonous, as if a troughful of hearts (referring to the abundance of romantic possibilities) are nothing but boring. In an attempt to escape this melancholy, the protagonist mentions a week in Paris as a way to temporarily forget their troubles and find solace. They long for a simple smile, despite the hardships they face. The chorus of the song signifies the protagonist's determination to move on and forget about someone who has been burning inside their brain, likely referencing a past love. They acknowledge that romance can be suffocating for those who strive for it, and instead choose to live a lush life in a small dive. This implies finding contentment and happiness in simpler pleasures and environments, away from the expectations and disappointments of romance. The final lines suggest that the protagonist wants to explain their bitterness and loneliness not only to themselves but also to others who may share the same sentiments. They feel a sense of solidarity with those whose lives are also filled with loneliness. Overall, "Lush Life" delves into themes of loneliness, disillusionment, and the pursuit of personal happiness. Julie London's interpretation adds a touch of vulnerability to the song, capturing the raw emotions embedded within its lyrics.
