Night and Day

Definition

Night and Day is a popular song composed by Cole Porter, first featured in the 1932 musical 'Gay Divorce'. The song captures the essence of love and longing, contrasting the feelings of day and night to convey the intensity of emotion. It highlights how love can illuminate life, much like day breaks through the darkness of night, connecting deeply with themes of romance and yearning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The song 'Night and Day' was composed during a time when American musical theater was evolving, showcasing the transition from operettas to more contemporary musical styles.
2. Cole Porter's use of syncopation and unexpected chord changes in 'Night and Day' contributed to its lasting appeal and complexity.
3. The lyrics explore the theme of love transcending time, illustrating how the presence of a loved one can brighten even the darkest moments.
4. 'Night and Day' has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, making it a classic standard in both musical theater and popular music.
5. The song exemplifies Porter's ability to blend wit with emotional depth, making it a standout piece in his catalog.

Review Questions

• How does 'Night and Day' reflect Cole Porter's style as a composer and lyricist?
  • 'Night and Day' showcases Cole Porter's signature style through its clever lyrics and innovative musical structure. The use of syncopation and unexpected harmonic shifts highlights Porter's unique approach to songwriting. His ability to convey deep emotion while maintaining a sense of wit is evident in this piece, making it a quintessential example of his work during the early era of musical theater.
• Discuss the thematic significance of light and darkness in 'Night and Day'.
  • 'Night and Day' employs the metaphor of light representing love and darkness symbolizing longing or absence. The lyrics articulate how the presence of a beloved person can transform life's experiences, turning 'night' into 'day'. This duality illustrates not just romantic feelings but also the broader human experience of hope amidst despair, making it relatable to audiences beyond its theatrical context.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Night and Day' on the evolution of musical theater standards during its time.
  • 'Night and Day' significantly influenced the evolution of musical theater standards by blending sophisticated lyricism with complex musicality. As one of Cole Porter's most enduring works, it set a precedent for future composers in integrating emotional depth into their songs. Its adaptability across various genres allowed it to transcend its original context in 'Gay Divorce', influencing both contemporary musical theater and popular music, thereby shaping the landscape for future artists in these fields.

Related terms

Cole Porter: An influential American composer and lyricist known for his sophisticated lyrics and innovative musical style, particularly in the early 20th century.

Musical Theatre: A theatrical performance that combines songs, spoken dialogue, and dance to tell a story, often featuring elements of romance and drama.

Standard: A popular song that has become widely recognized and performed by various artists over time, often associated with jazz and pop music.