Meaning of "Mona Lisa" by Sam Cooke

"Mona Lisa" delves into the enigma of the iconic painting by Leonardo da Vinci and the woman it portrays. Sam Cooke portrays Mona Lisa as a figure burdened by loneliness and misunderstood by those who gaze upon her. The lyrics suggest that the smile of Mona Lisa may not be one of genuine joy, but rather a facade to conceal her inner turmoil. The song questions whether she is truly warm and real, or simply a cold and lonely work of art. By exploring the emotional depth of the subject, Cooke highlights the complexity of human emotion and the layers beneath outward appearances. The song ultimately serves as a reflection on the nature of art, beauty, and the mysteries of the human soul.