After you get what you want you don't want it

After you get what you want you don't want it

Irving Berlin, one of the most prolific and successful songwriters of the 20th century, penned the famous lyrics "After you get what you want you don't want it" in his song "Heat Wave" from the musical "As Thousands Cheer" in 1933. These words have resonated with audiences for decades, capturing the fleeting nature of desire and the emptiness that can accompany achieving one's goals.

The sentiment expressed in these lyrics speaks to the idea that once we attain something we have been longing for, the initial excitement and satisfaction often fade quickly. This can be seen in various aspects of life, from material possessions to personal achievements. For example, someone may work tirelessly to buy a new car, only to find that the thrill of ownership diminishes over time. Similarly, a person may strive for a promotion at work, only to realize that the increased responsibilities and stress that come with it are not as fulfilling as they had imagined.

In the context of Irving Berlin's own life, this sentiment may have held particular significance. Despite his immense success and fame as a songwriter, Berlin was known to be a private and somewhat reclusive individual. He often shied away from the spotlight and preferred to focus on his work rather than the trappings of celebrity. This suggests that even for someone who achieved great success in their chosen field, the pursuit of fame and fortune may not always bring lasting happiness.

The idea that "after you get what you want you don't want it" can also be interpreted as a cautionary tale about the dangers of constantly chasing after external validation and material possessions. True fulfillment, Berlin seems to suggest, comes from within and cannot be found in the pursuit of fleeting desires. Instead, it is important to focus on what truly brings us joy and meaning in life, whether that be creative expression, personal relationships, or simply being present in the moment.