To Each His Own

Song Meaning

Jerry Vale's "To Each His Own" isn't just a sentimental ballad; it's a carefully constructed argument for mutualism in love. The song's meaning hinges on the idea that fulfillment, beauty, and even basic functionality are impossible in isolation. Vale isn't merely stating a preference for companionship; he's building a philosophical case, brick by brick, using the language of romance. The opening lines, comparing love to a rose needing sun and rain, establish this principle immediately: growth requires external forces, a partner to nurture and be nurtured by. This isn't about co-dependence, but rather an understanding that certain inherent potentials can only be unlocked through connection. The lyrics progress through a series of analogous situations – a song needing words, a dream requiring a partner, a flame needing a glow – all reinforcing the central thesis. Vale cleverly uses these metaphors to avoid sounding saccharine. He's not just saying he *wants* someone; he's implying a deeper, almost biological imperative. The repetition of "To each his own" becomes less a statement of individual autonomy and more an acknowledgment that *his* individual path inevitably leads to this specific person. It’s a subtle but powerful shift in perspective. Ultimately, "To Each His Own" transcends simple romantic yearning. It speaks to a fundamental human need for reciprocity. The final verse, with its imagery of kissing lips, underscores the idea of love as a fundamentally shared experience. Vale isn't just singing about finding someone he loves; he's articulating a belief that love, in its truest form, is an essential component for a complete and meaningful existence. The 'one and only you' isn't just a term of endearment, but the logical conclusion of a life lived seeking reciprocal completion.