"The Days of Wine and Roses" is a song originally written for the 1962 movie of the same name. It was composed by Henry Mancini and the lyrics were penned by Johnny Mercer. The song was later popularized by Julie London, who recorded a version that became one of her most well-known songs. The lyrics portray a bittersweet tale of nostalgia and lost love. "The days of wine and roses" symbolize a period of happiness and joy in the protagonist's life. They reminisce about a time when life was carefree, depicted as laughing and running away like a child playing. However, as time passes, the protagonist experiences a change, represented by the closing door marked "nevermore." This door represents the end of those blissful times, which can no longer be accessed or relived. The lonely night in the lyrics reveals the protagonist's feelings of solitude and longing. They are haunted by memories, represented by a passing breeze, bringing back the image of a golden smile. This smile introduced them to the days of wine and roses, implying that a significant person, likely a lost love, played a crucial role in that happy time. Overall, the song conveys the idea of looking back fondly on a period of joy and love, but also acknowledging its irretrievability. It reflects on the transient nature of happiness and the lingering impact of past experiences.
