Interpretation
The lyrics of the song 'The Niceness of It All' by
Gilbert O'Sullivan are about the importance of kindness and love in a relationship. The singer expresses that it is important for him to be with his partner, whether they are close or far apart. The kindness and niceness of his partner make him love him more and more.
'It's the niceness of it all
Baby, it's the niceness of it all
Whether you're near or far away from me
It doesn't matter
As long as I can be with you
Whenever I need it'
He describes how the kindness of his partner leads him to write him letters and tell him how much he has missed him in the past weeks. He calls him whenever he has the opportunity, even if there is only time for a brief 'hello'.
'And even if there's only time for a hello
It's the niceness of it all that makes me love him more and more'
The singer also mentions that he has changed and drinks less alcohol. His mother is thrilled with this change and thinks that his partner is the right one for him.
'I don't know what has happened to me
I've hardly touched a drink
My mother thinks it's wonderful
He's come off the sinful street
She thinks you're exactly the cure that I need
And who am I to argue after all? Don't I believe that too?'
The singer expresses that he would rather go a week without his partner than not be with him at all. He knows that he can't be picky and appreciates the kindness of his partner.
'If I can't be with you for a week, then a day will have to do
I'm not saying that's enough
But beggars can't be choosers
And besides, if nothing else, I know at least
It's the niceness of it all that makes me love him more and more'
At the end of the song, the singer describes how he imagines what it would be like to live in a wheelchair and depend on others for help. He refers to the importance of having someone to trust and who gives you love and kindness.
'Try to live your life to the full
Confined to a chair
Try to hide your loneliness when nobody's there'
Overall, the lyrics of the song 'The Niceness of It All' express the importance of kindness, love, and closeness in a relationship and how these feelings can intensify the desire to be with one's partner.