☝️ Key Points
- The song emphasizes the importance of knowing literature, especially works by Shakespeare, to win the affection of a woman
- Various characters and scenes from Shakespeare's works are mentioned as examples of successful romantic strategies
- The song suggests that by quoting famous authors and performing dramatic scenes, men appear more interesting and attractive to women
- Although the song highlights the role of literature in seduction, it is written in a humorous and exaggerated tone, and is not intended as serious advice
Interpretation
"Look it up in Shakespeare" is a humorous song by
Cole Porter that is used in his musical "Kiss me, Kate". The meaning of the song revolves around the idea that knowledge of literature, especially the works of Shakespeare, can help win a woman's heart.
The song begins by stating that one can pique a woman's interest by quoting excerpts from famous literary works such as those by Aeschylus, Euripides, and Homer. But the real trick is Shakespeare. According to the song, men have better luck with women if they quote Shakespeare: "Look it up in Shakespeare, there's something there! If you talk about Shakespeare, women are immediately smitten."
Throughout the song, various characters and scenes from Shakespeare's plays are mentioned and how they could be used in romantic situations. For example, it is suggested that a man who speaks like Titus Andronicus will surely receive a kiss. Or if a woman is cold and distant, a man could try to be cynical like Iago in 'Othello' to pique her interest.
Overall, the song offers a humorous take on how literature and especially the works of Shakespeare could be used as a means of seduction. It plays with the idea that quoting famous authors and reciting dramatic scenes from literary works could make a man more attractive and interesting to women. However, it is important to note that the song is meant to be humorous and exaggerated and is not intended as serious advice for seduction."