About the song
Doris Day – Que Sera, Sera: A Timeless Ode to Acceptance
There are certain songs that transcend generations, melodies that weave themselves into the fabric of our collective memory. Doris Day’s “Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)” is undoubtedly one of those timeless classics. Released in 1956 as part of the Alfred Hitchcock film The Man Who Knew Too Much, this seemingly simple tune about fate and acceptance has resonated with audiences worldwide for decades.
Day’s crystal-clear vocals, imbued with both innocence and wisdom, deliver the song’s message with a gentle yet powerful sincerity. The lyrics, penned by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, pose life’s eternal questions about the future with a childlike curiosity. “Will I be pretty? Will I be rich?” These inquiries, though seemingly naive, touch upon the universal anxieties we all face as we navigate the uncertainties of life.
The song’s beauty lies in its reassuring response: “Que sera, sera, whatever will be, will be.” This phrase, borrowed from an old Italian proverb, encapsulates a profound philosophy of acceptance. It encourages us to let go of our worries about the unknown and embrace the unfolding of our lives with grace and optimism.
“Que Sera, Sera” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. Its message has been woven into countless films, television shows, and even everyday conversations. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its ability to tap into our deepest hopes and fears. It reminds us that while we may not be able to control the future, we can choose to face it with courage and serenity.
For those who grew up listening to Doris Day, “Que Sera, Sera” evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. It transports us back to a time when music was imbued with a sense of optimism and innocence. Yet, the song’s message remains relevant today, offering solace and guidance in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable.
Join me as we revisit this beloved classic and explore the enduring appeal of “Que Sera, Sera.” Let’s delve into the song’s history, analyze its musical structure, and reflect on its timeless message of acceptance and hope.
Video
Lyrics
When I was just a little girl
I asked my mother what will I be?
Will I be pretty? Will I be rich?
Here’s what she said to me
Que sera, sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future’s not ours to see
Que sera, sera
What will be, will be
When I grew up and fell in love
I asked my sweetheart what lies ahead?
Will we have rainbows day after day?
Here’s what my sweetheart said
Que sera, sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future’s not ours to see
Que sera, sera
What will be, will be
Now I have children of my own
They ask their mother what will I be
Will I be handsome? Will I be rich?
I tell them tenderly
Que sera, sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future’s not ours to see
Que sera, sera
What will be, will be
Que sera, sera