"Rose petals seem to fall" in "In a Sentimental Mood"

Question

Could anyone please explain the line "Rose petals seem to fall" in the famous Duke Ellington tune "In a Sentimental Mood"? As it doesn't seem to be discussed anywhere on the Net, its meaning must be clear to native English speakers. After spending more than 30 years leanrning English, I'm at a loss.

Philip · Accepted Answer

In a romantic or sentimental setting, rose petals often figure in the scenario.  A flower girl at a wedding often scatters rose petals on the white runner just before the bride makes her procession.  I think that Ellington is trying to evoke that type of image:  peaceful, lovely, romantic.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you very much for your help. I'm truly grateful. Could you bear with me and help me with two specific questions, please? Do you think all or most native speakers will think of a wedding upon hearing this line? Will it be wide of the mark to take it mean "it seems you are mine now"? In the Ella Fitzgerald version I have, the middle part of the song goes:

Rose petals seem to fall

It's all I could dream to call you mine

My heart's a lighter thing

Since you made this night a thing divine

I'd appreciate it if you would enlighten me and make my heart even lighter, sir.

Clive · Answer

Hi guys,

Personally, the line didn't make me think of a wedding.

It just made me think of being in a beautiful garden,

ie a Paradise, a world so heavenly.

Clive

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you, sir. My heart is certainly lighter now.

"Rose petals seem to fall" in "In a Sentimental Mood"

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