Meaning: This quote by Dorothy Fields, a renowned American lyricist, provides insight into the creative process of songwriting. Fields, known for her work in the Great American Songbook, collaborated with many prominent composers and wrote lyrics for numerous popular songs. In this quote, she expresses the idea that creating a song is not a spontaneous or effortless process; rather, it requires effort, perseverance, and a certain level of coaxing to bring it to life.

When Fields mentions that "a song just doesn't come on," she is highlighting the fact that inspiration alone is not enough to produce a complete and polished song. Instead, she emphasizes the need to actively engage in the creative process, suggesting that songwriting involves more than simply waiting for inspiration to strike. This sentiment reflects the common understanding among artists that creativity is not solely reliant on moments of divine inspiration, but also requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to actively cultivate ideas.

The phrase "I've always had to tease it out, squeeze it out" further elucidates Fields' perspective on the process of songwriting. The use of the words "tease" and "squeeze" conveys the notion that crafting a song involves a deliberate and sometimes challenging effort to extract the essence of the composition. This vivid imagery suggests that the creative process can be akin to coaxing something elusive and intangible into a tangible form, requiring persistence and skill to shape it into a coherent and meaningful piece of music.

Fields' words also reveal the labor-intensive nature of songwriting. The implication is that the creation of a song often involves a process of refinement and shaping, requiring the songwriter to work through multiple iterations, experiment with different melodies and lyrics, and make deliberate choices to mold the song into its final form. This concept aligns with the experiences of many songwriters who attest to the iterative and often arduous nature of crafting a song, as they strive to capture the right emotions, themes, and musical elements.

Moreover, the quote suggests that the act of creating a song demands a level of skill and expertise. By expressing that she has "always had to tease it out, squeeze it out," Fields alludes to her own proficiency and mastery in the art of songwriting. This highlights the importance of honing one's craft, developing a deep understanding of musical composition, and possessing the technical ability to bring a song to fruition. It also underscores the idea that successful songwriting requires a combination of talent, experience, and a willingness to invest the necessary time and effort.

In summary, Dorothy Fields' quote provides valuable insight into the creative process of songwriting. It emphasizes the active and labor-intensive nature of crafting a song, highlighting the importance of dedication, skill, and perseverance in bringing musical ideas to fruition. By acknowledging the deliberate effort required to "tease out" and "squeeze out" a song, Fields offers a compelling perspective on the art of songwriting, one that resonates with aspiring and experienced songwriters alike.