☝️ Key Points
- The song lyrics emphasize the importance of the A subway line in New York for traveling to Harlem.
- It is noted that the 'A' train is the fastest way to get to Harlem.
- The lyrics create an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation for the train ride.
- The song lyrics mention the historically significant neighborhood of Sugar Hill in Harlem.
- Overall, the song lyrics convey the message that the 'A' train is an important connection between different communities.
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song "Take the 'A' Train" by
Ella Fitzgerald are about the importance of the New York subway line A for traveling to Harlem. The lyrics tell us that you have to take the 'A' train to get to Sugar Hill, a neighborhood in Harlem. It is emphasized that this is the fastest way to get to Harlem. If you miss the train, you also miss the opportunity to quickly get to Harlem.
The text highlights the urgency of taking the train by saying: "Hurry, get on, now it's coming" and "All aboard, get on the 'A' train". It is almost portrayed as if the train has its own personality and energy, when it says: "Listen to those rails a-thrumming". The lyrics create an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation for the train ride.
The text also expresses the importance of Harlem by mentioning Sugar Hill, a historically significant neighborhood in Harlem. Sugar Hill was known for its cultural diversity and its contributions to African American culture.
Overall, the lyrics convey the message that the 'A' train is the fastest and most exciting way to get to Harlem. It showcases the importance of Harlem as a cultural center and emphasizes the role of public transportation in connecting different communities.