Soldier Boy – Elvis Presley – 1960

About The Song

In the realm of music, there are songs that entertain, songs that inspire, and then there are songs that touch the very core of our being, leaving an indelible mark on our souls. “Return to Sender (Soldier Boy)”, a poignant ballad penned by Winfield Scott and first recorded by the legendary Elvis Presley, falls into the latter category. This heartfelt plea, released in 1962, encapsulates the anguish and longing of a love unrequited, striking a chord that resonates deeply with listeners across generations.

Presley, with his inimitable vocal prowess, delivers the song with a raw emotion that is both captivating and heartbreaking. His voice, imbued with a blend of vulnerability and determination, paints a vivid picture of a man wrestling with the pain of rejection. The lyrics, simple yet profound, chronicle the protagonist’s futile attempts to salvage a love that seems destined to remain unfulfilled.

The song’s opening lines, “I gave a letter to the postman today / He put it in his sack / Bright and early next morning / He brought my letter back”, set the stage for a tale of unrequited love. The postman’s return with the unopened letter serves as a stark reminder of the protagonist’s dashed hopes. The repeated phrase “Return to sender”, echoing throughout the song, becomes a poignant refrain, emphasizing the finality of the rejection.

Despite the disheartening reality, the protagonist refuses to relinquish hope entirely. He clings to the belief that perhaps, just perhaps, his message of love could still reach its intended recipient. This glimmer of hope is evident in the lines, “So then I dropped it in the mailbox / And sent it special D / Bright and early next morning / It came right back to me”. The protagonist’s determination to make his love known is both admirable and heartbreaking.

As the song progresses, the protagonist’s despair deepens. The realization that his love is truly unattainable sinks in, and he grapples with the pain of acceptance. The lines, “This time I’m gonna take it myself / And put it right in her hand / And if it comes back the very next day / Then I’ll understand”, signify a turning point in his emotional journey. He is willing to confront the truth, no matter how painful it may be.

“Return to Sender (Soldier Boy)” concludes with a sense of resignation, as the protagonist acknowledges the futility of his efforts. The final lines, “Return to sender, address unknown / No such person, no such zone”, underscore the harsh reality of love lost. Yet, amidst the despair, there is a glimmer of acceptance, a realization that sometimes, love, no matter how deeply felt, is simply not meant to be.

Elvis Presley’s “Return to Sender (Soldier Boy)” stands as a timeless testament to the power of love, both in its beauty and its heartbreak. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, evoking emotions that transcend time and cultural boundaries. It is a song that lingers long after the final note has faded, reminding us of the profound impact that love, whether reciprocated or unrequited, can have on our lives.

Video

Lyrics

Soldier boy why feel blue
Don’t you believe that she will be true
It’s written in the book
That she was meant for only you

Soldier boy tell me why do you cry
When you return she’ll rush to your side
It’s written in the book
That she was meant for only you

So prove your love is true
She’ll be there to say I do
And if you go o’er sea or land
She’ll make you understand

While you’re gone oh try to believe
Her love for you is really for real
It’s written in the book
That she was meant for only you

So prove your love is true
She’ll be there to say I do
And if you go o’er sea or land
She’ll make you understand

While you’re gone oh try to believe
Her love for you is really for real
It’s written in the book
That she was meant for only you
Soldier boy