Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do) album art

Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)

by Christopher Cross

Summary

"Arthur's Theme" is about the magic and challenge of falling in love, especially when life feels complicated. It balances the joy of romance with the realities of life choices and expectations.

Full Analysis

The song dives into the experience of finding true love and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. It paints a picture of someone who feels torn between their desires and the pressures of life, like the pull between the Moon and New York City. Ultimately, it celebrates love as the best thing you can do, even when life feels hectic.

Verse 1

Once in your life you find her
Someone that turns your heart around
And next thing you know you're closing down the town
Wake up and it's still with you

This verse captures that magical moment when you meet someone special. It’s like a turning point in life. You feel excited and overwhelmed, almost as if the whole world stops for a second. The line about "closing down the town" suggests that this feeling is so intense, it affects everything around you. It’s an emotional wake-up call that lingers in your mind.

Chorus

When you get caught between the Moon and New York City
I know it's crazy, but it's true
If you get caught between the Moon and New York City
The best that you can do (the best that you can do)
The best that you can do is fall in love

The chorus is catchy and reinforces the main idea of the song. Being "caught between the Moon and New York City" paints a dreamy yet chaotic picture of love. It acknowledges that love can feel out of reach or complicated, but ultimately, it’s worth pursuing. Falling in love is presented as the best choice, despite any craziness that might come with it.

Verse 2

Arthur he does as he pleases
All of his life, he's mastered choice
Deep in his heart, he's just
He's just a boy

In this verse, we get a glimpse of Arthur, who seems carefree and in control. He makes his own decisions and lives life on his own terms. Yet, there’s a contrast here; despite his bravado, he’s still described as a boy. This shows that deep down, he might be vulnerable or uncertain, hinting at the complexities of adult life and love.

Chorus

When you get caught between the Moon and New York City
I know it's crazy, but it's true
If you get caught between the Moon and New York City
The best that you can do (the best that you can do)
The best that you can do is fall in love

The chorus repeats, emphasizing its importance. It reminds us that even in the chaos of life, love is a guiding light. The repetition makes it feel hopeful and uplifting, as if to say that no matter the challenges, love is the answer.

Bridge

Laughing about the way they want him to be

This line in the bridge adds a layer of humor and authenticity to the story. Arthur seems to shrug off societal expectations. He’s living life for himself, not conforming to what others want. It’s a refreshing take on the struggle between individuality and societal pressure, making the song feel relatable.

Outro

(If you get caught between the Moon and New York City)
(I know it's crazy, but it's true)

The outro wraps things up nicely, bringing back the central idea. It’s a reminder that love can be wild and unpredictable, yet it’s undeniably real. This closing line reinforces the connection between the dreamy imagery of the Moon and the bustling reality of New York City, tying the song together beautifully.

Closing Thoughts

"Arthur's Theme" captures the essence of love amid life’s chaos. It skillfully blends the excitement of romance with the struggles of personal choice. The lyrics are relatable, reminding us that falling in love, even when life gets messy, is still the best thing we can do. It’s a timeless anthem that resonates with anyone who’s ever been caught in the whirlwind of love.

Full Lyrics

Once in your life you find her
Someone that turns your heart around
And next thing you know you're closing down the town
Wake up and it's still with you
Even though you left her way across town
Wondering to yourself, "Hey, what've I found?"

When you get caught between the Moon and New York City
I know it's crazy, but it's true
If you get caught between the Moon and New York City
The best that you can do (the best that you can do)
The best that you can do is fall in love

Arthur he does as he pleases
All of his life, he's mastered choice
Deep in his heart, he's just
He's just a boy
Living his life one day at a time and showing himself a really good time
Laughing about the way they want him to be

When you get caught between the Moon and New York City
I know it's crazy, but it's true
If you get caught between the Moon and New York City
The best that you can do (the best that you can do)
The best that you can do is fall in love

When you get caught between the Moon and New York City
I know it's crazy, but it's true
If you get caught between the Moon and New York City
The best that you can do (the best that you can do)
The best that you can do is fall in love

When you get caught between the Moon and New York City
I know it's crazy, but it's true
If you get caught between the Moon and New York City
The best that you can do (the best that you can do)
The best that you can do is fall in love

(If you get caught between the Moon and New York City)
(I know it's crazy, but it's true)
More by Christopher Cross
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