The song "Sleigh Ride In July" by Julie London tells the story of a person who feels deceived and taken advantage of in a romantic relationship. The lyrics describe being taken for a sleigh ride, which is typically associated with winter and Christmas, but in an unexpected time - July. This sets the tone for the overall feeling of being misled and deceived. The singer reflects on being a setup for disappointment and sighs, realizing that they were tricked into believing in a love that was only make-believe. The mockingbird's whistling symbolizes the deceptive nature of the relationship, singing a sentimental tune that further adds to the illusion. The lyrics also mention the moonlight, which can be interpreted as a symbol of the romantic atmosphere in which the deception took place. The narrator admits their lack of awareness, as they did not know enough to come in "out of the moonlight," indicating their naivety and vulnerability in the situation. The chorus emphasizes that the big romance was nothing more than a fabrication, only a sleigh ride on a warm summer evening, further reinforcing the theme of deceit. The narrator had their dreams kept safe during the winter months, only to realize that they were taken for a ride in the wrong season, adding to their sense of betrayal. Overall, "Sleigh Ride In July" portrays a story of being deceived in love, where the narrator trusted in a relationship that turned out to be false and unreal. The song captures the emotions of disappointment, realization, and the need to explain the feelings of being taken advantage of.
