The lyrics speak of a woman professing her love for Porgy and pleading with him not to let another man take her away, as she wants to stay with Porgy forever. She dreads the idea of being handled by the other man and knows that when he returns to call her, she will have to leave Porgy.

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Meaning of "Porgy" by Billie Holiday


The lyrics of "Porgy" by Billie Holiday convey themes of love, loyalty, and the fear of losing one's partner to someone else. The speaker passionately expresses her love for Porgy and her desire to stay with him, even though she knows that the other man will eventually return for her. The song captures the complexity of romantic relationships, where love and commitment are tested by external forces. The fear of being taken away from a loved one and the inevitability of having to part ways are central themes that resonate with listeners. The emotional intensity and vulnerability in the lyrics highlight the deep connection between the speaker and Porgy, as well as the impending heartbreak they will face. Overall, the song poignantly explores the dynamics of love and loss, emphasizing the bittersweet nature of relationships.