The quote suggests a situation where an invitation or suggestion was made for someone to visit Paris specifically in May due to its pleasant weather and vibrant atmosphere, but this timing had to be reconsidered because of a requirement related to rhythm or rhyme. The person who made the suggestion felt constrained by linguistic rules rather than practical considerations.
On a deeper level, this quote speaks to the often arbitrary nature of conventions and constraints that we impose upon ourselves, whether they are literary or otherwise. In this case, it highlights how creativity can sometimes be dictated by the formality of language—such as rhyme schemes in poetry—rather than purely by personal preference or practicality. This reflection on the influence of structural demands can also apply to other areas of life where rules and traditions might overshadow more flexible thinking.
The quote is attributed to Vernon Duke, a talented American composer and lyricist known for his contributions to musical theatre during the mid-20th century. Born with the name Vladimir Dukelsky in Ukraine before moving to New York as a child, Vernon Duke became well-known for writing songs that captured the essence of the American experience through jazz and Broadway performances.
