| "Stay in My Arms" was written in 1935, as an idea for a revue sketch. Blitzstein didn't often write about retreating from the world's problems but this yearning, protective ballad may have been written for his wife Eva, who was in very frail emotional and physical condition at that time, and died just a few months later. The song is structured like a Gershwin tune, but it is vocally and harmonically far more expansive; and during the B-section, you are reminded that this composer studied with Schoenberg.
In this great city where will I find one peaceful, pretty spot where noise is not?
A bit of quiet, untouched by all the hectic riot would help things a lot.
Our temples automatic- science reveals.
Our pace is acrobatic- life moves on wheels
Here's my admission-
I haven't very much ambition for the mad existence of our time.
Let's just be old fashioned.
Let's just be lazy.
The world's gone crazy
so stay in my arms.
My most dear; come close dear.
Don't be afraid to.
My hands were made to shield you from alarm.
What's all the shooting for?
Where are they rushing?
Whom are they rooting for?
Whom are they crushing?
Forget them or let them grow dim and hazy.
The world's gone crazy
so stay in my arms.
Let's lie here
year by year midfield and daisy.
The world's gone crazy
so stay in my arms.
While millions of millions go wildly dancing,
I'll be romancing a song of your charms.
They dance a dance that kills- mad and defenseless.
Such jumping Jacks and Jills.
It's all so senseless.
I love you.
You love me.
That much is plain, dear.
The world's insane dear
so stay in my arms.
- Words and music by Marc Blitzstein.
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