The Meaning Behind The Song: The Twelfth of Never by Johnny Mathis
As a music journalist, I have the privilege of exploring and uncovering the stories behind some of the most beloved songs of all time. Today, I want to delve into the beautiful and timeless ballad called “The Twelfth of Never” by Johnny Mathis. This song has a special place in my heart, and I would love to share with you the meaning behind its lyrics.
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I first heard this song on an old vinyl record at my grandparents’ house. It was a warm summer evening, and my grandfather had just finished telling me stories about his younger days. As the sun was setting, he decided to put on some music to set the mood.
That’s when I remember stumbling upon “The Twelfth of Never.” The moment the first notes filled the room, I was captivated. Johnny Mathis’s soothing voice and the heartfelt lyrics instantly transported me to a world of pure emotions.
The Message of Love and Devotion
The lyrics of “The Twelfth of Never” speak of a love that knows no bounds. It is a love that defies logic and extends beyond time and space. Mathis beautifully expresses the depth of his feelings when he sings, “You ask how much I need you, must I explain? I need you, oh, my darling, like roses need rain.”
The chorus further emphasizes the enduring nature of this love. Mathis promises, “Until the twelfth of never, I’ll still be loving you.” This phrase implies a love that will last forever, extending into a realm that is beyond our comprehension.
The Symbolism of Nature
The song’s lyrics cleverly use nature imagery to convey the eternal quality of this love. Mathis compares his love to the essential needs of nature, such as rain for roses and April snow that melts hearts. These metaphors enhance the tender and timeless nature of the relationship described in the song.
The lines, “I’ll love you till the bluebells forget to bloom; I’ll love you till the clover has lost its perfume,” evoke the imagery of springtime, a season associated with rebirth and renewal. This serves to highlight the evergreen quality of the love that Mathis sings about.
The Influence and Popularity
Released in 1957, “The Twelfth of Never” quickly became one of Johnny Mathis’s signature songs. Its popularity continued to soar when it was included in his album “Johnny’s Greatest Hits” in 1958. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, including Dolly Parton, Cliff Richard, and Donny Osmond.
The timeless message of love and devotion in “The Twelfth of Never” resonates with people of all ages and continues to touch hearts today. It is a testament to Mathis’s incredible talent as a singer and the universal longing for a love that transcends time.
So, the next time you find yourself captivated by a beautiful melody or entranced by poetic lyrics, take a moment to unravel the hidden meanings behind the song. You never know what kind of love story or heartfelt message you might discover.
