The Lens of Art

"We all know that art is not the truth. Art is a lie that makes us realize the truth."
--- Pablo Picasso

Porter! Porter!

This song was written by Cole Porter, and caused a stir at the time of its release in the 1930's. Porter himself had a colorful life, and while this isn't his most popular song among his string of hits (Anything Goes, Night and Day, I Get A Kick Out of You, I've Got You Under My Skin, Let's Do It, True Love, Every Time We Say Goodbye) and not even my favorite, I'm including it for its stark treatment of prostitution. Newer songs are more vulgar, but "Love for Sale", I believe, captures the bittersweetness of rented love.

When the only sound in the empty street,
Is the heavy tread of the heavy feet
That belong to a lonesome cop
I open shop.

When the moon so long has been gazing down
On the wayward ways of this wayward town.
That her smile becomes a smirk,
I go to work.

Love for sale!
Appetizing young love for sale.
Love that's fresh and still unspoiled,
Love that's only slightly soiled,
Love for sale.

Who will buy?
Who would like to sample my supply?
Who's prepared to pay the price,
For a trip to paradise?
Love for sale.

Let the poets pipe of love
In their childish way,
I know every type of love
Better far than they.
If you want the thrill of love,
I've been through the mill of love;
Old love, new love
Every love but true love.

Love for sale!
Appetising young love for sale.
If you want to buy my wares,
Follow me and climb the stairs
Love for sale!
Love for sale!
Love for sale.