About the song
“Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)” by Jim Croce is a poignant narrative wrapped in a folk-rock melody that resonates deeply with its listeners. Released in 1972 as part of the album *You Don’t Mess Around with Jim*, the song quickly carved out its place in the hearts of many, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 by December of that year.
The lyrics, reminiscent of James Taylor’s storytelling style, depict a heartfelt conversation between the protagonist and a telephone operator. The protagonist, still grappling with the emotional aftermath of a breakup, seeks the phone number of his former lover, who has moved on with his ex-best friend to Los Angeles. In a desperate attempt to show he’s moved on, he asks the operator for the number but breaks down upon receiving it, unable to go through with the call. This emotional tug-of-war is underscored by Croce’s soulful delivery, evoking a sense of raw vulnerability that is both relatable and timeless.
The genesis of the song is rooted in Croce’s own experiences during his military service, witnessing soldiers awaiting their fate through brief, often painful phone calls. This personal touch adds a layer of authenticity to the lyrics, making them resonate even more profoundly with listeners.
Critically acclaimed for its narrative strength, *Cash Box* likened it to a Chuck Berry-style storytelling tune, emphasizing its compelling and relatable nature. The song’s success was not confined to its original release; it continued to captivate audiences through Croce’s live performances, including notable appearances on *The Midnight Special* in 1973. Live renditions further cemented its reputation as a classic, showcasing Croce’s ability to connect intimately with his audience through storytelling and music.
“Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)” remains a standout in Jim Croce’s discography, celebrated not only for its musical craftsmanship but also for its enduring emotional resonance. Its ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and heartache has solidified its place as a timeless piece of storytelling through song, continuing to touch new generations with its universal themes of love, loss, and longing.
Video
Lyrics
Operator, oh, could you help me place this call?
See the number on the matchbook is old and faded
She’s living in L.A.
With my best old ex-friend, Ray
Guy, she said she knew well, and sometimes hated
But isn’t that the way they say it goes?
Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So, I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine
And to show I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels
Operator, oh, could you help me place this call?
‘Cause I can’t read the number that you just gave me
There’s something in my eyes
You know it happens every time
I think about a love that I thought would save me
But isn’t that the way they say it goes?
Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine
And to show I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels, no, no, no, no
That’s not the way it feels
Operator, oh, let’s forget about this call
There’s no one there I really wanted to talk to
Thank you for your time
Ah, you’ve been so much more than kind
You can keep the dime
But isn’t that the way they say it goes?
Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine
And to show I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels