"I'm Not the Marrying Kind" by Elvis Presley is an upbeat and somewhat humorous song that captures the singer's reluctance to settle down into marital life. This song, featured in the 1961 movie *Follow That Dream*, showcases Elvis's character's playful and carefree attitude towards life and relationships. Here’s a deeper look into the context and lyrics of the song:

Context of Creation

"I'm Not the Marrying Kind" was part of the soundtrack for *Follow That Dream*, a film that starred Elvis Presley as Toby Kwimper, a character who is part of a family that ends up living off a highway in Florida after their car breaks down. The movie, a light-hearted comedy, allowed Elvis to explore a character who is charming, a bit naive, and non-conformist in his approach to life and love.

Elvis Presley - I'm not the marrying kind.

Movie Influence on Lyrics

In the film, Elvis's character Toby is a young man who enjoys his freedom and is wary of traditional commitments, which is directly reflected in the song's lyrics. The song serves as a character anthem, underlining Toby's personal philosophy about not being suited for marriage or the responsibilities that come with it.

Lyrics Analysis

The lyrics of "I'm Not the Marrying Kind" playfully articulate the protagonist's reasons for avoiding marriage. He sings about how he enjoys his freedom too much and doesn’t want to be tied down. Phrases like "Look here baby, I’m not the marrying kind / I’ll be yours and you’ll be mine / If you’re tempted, test the water / Don’t dive in, you might get slaughtered" humorously convey his fear of commitment and the potential loss of independence.

Thematic Elements

The song juxtaposes the notion of romantic relationships with the fear of commitment a common theme in many cultures where young individuals often grapple with the expectations of settling down. Elvis’s delivery of the song, with a light and carefree tone, enhances the playful rejection of conventional marital expectations.

Conclusion

"I'm Not the Marrying Kind" reflects the spirit of its time, where the early 1960s began to see shifts in societal norms and attitudes towards marriage and personal freedom. The song and the movie together portray a character and a sentiment that question traditional paths, adding a layer of humor and light-hearted defiance. This song is emblematic of the kind of roles Elvis often played: charismatic, a bit rebellious, and always with a twinkle in his eye.