Ivory Tower (1956 song)

"Ivory Tower" is a popular song written by Jack Fulton and Lois Steele. It was a major hit in 1956, recorded by several artists, most notably Cathy Carr and Gale Storm.

History and Composition:

The song is a ballad that uses the metaphor of an "ivory tower" to describe a state of blissful but ultimately unrealistic isolation from the pain and hardship of the real world. The lyrics convey the singer's desire to remain shielded from heartbreak and disappointment, opting for a life of naive happiness despite its potential falsity.

Popular Recordings:

• Cathy Carr: Carr's version is arguably the most well-known and commercially successful recording of "Ivory Tower." It reached #2 on the Billboard charts in 1956 and is considered her signature song.

• Gale Storm: Storm, an actress and singer, also released a popular version of the song around the same time. Her rendition gained significant airplay and contributed to the song's overall popularity.

Themes and Interpretation:

The song explores themes of:

• Idealism vs. Realism: The "ivory tower" represents an idealized existence, free from the harsh realities of life. The song questions whether such an existence is truly desirable or even possible.
• Naivete and Innocence: The desire to remain in an "ivory tower" suggests a longing for innocence and a fear of emotional pain.
• The Nature of Happiness: The song indirectly asks whether true happiness can be found in a state of blissful ignorance or if it requires facing life's challenges head-on.

Legacy:

"Ivory Tower" remains a recognizable and frequently covered song from the 1950s. Its enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes of love, loss, and the human desire for happiness. The song's title has also contributed to the broader cultural understanding of the term "ivory tower" as a metaphor for detachment from the real world.