“Lovesong” by The Cure is a timeless classic that has captivated listeners for decades with its heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing melody. The song paints a vivid picture of the transformative power of love and how it has the ability to heal and rejuvenate.
Apart from The Cure, many other artists have covered “Lovesong” over the years. American rock band 311 did an incredible version for the soundtrack of the movie “50 First Dates,” and Adele also featured it on her album “21” in 2011.
This article delves into the meaning behind the lyrics, exploring how they poignantly depict the various aspects of love.
Table of Contents
Lyrics Interpretation
Before we delve into the story behind this song, let’s take a closer look at each verse of the lyrics.
Verse 1
Whenever I’m alone with you
You make me feel like I am home again
Whenever I’m alone with you
You make me feel like I am whole again
The opening verse sets the tone for the entire song, describing the feeling of comfort and belonging that love provides. The repetition of “whenever I’m alone with you” emphasizes the significance of this connection. When the singer is with their loved one, they feel “home again” and “whole again.” These phrases suggest that love has the power to restore a sense of inner peace and completeness that may have been lost or fractured.
Verse 2
Whenever I’m alone with you
You make me feel like I am young again
Whenever I’m alone with you
You make me feel like I am fun again
In the second verse, the lyrics portray love as a rejuvenating force. When the singer is with their partner, they feel “young again” and “fun again.” This suggests that love can rekindle a sense of youthfulness, joy, and spontaneity that may have been dulled by the passage of time or the weight of everyday responsibilities. Love can be a powerful force in making life feel vibrant and enjoyable once more.
Chorus
However far away
I will always love you
However long I stay
I will always love you
Whatever words I say
I will always love you
I will always love you
The chorus is a heartfelt proclamation of unwavering devotion. Despite any physical or emotional distance, the singer pledges their eternal love. This powerful message underscores the idea that true love transcends time, space, and even the words spoken between partners. The repetition of “I will always love you” further emphasizes the strength and durability of this bond.
Bridge
(Fly me to the moon)
The bridge, though brief, is a whimsical interlude that adds a touch of levity to the song. The phrase “Fly me to the moon” can be interpreted as a metaphor for the uplifting and transportive power of love. It’s as if the love between the singer and their partner has the ability to carry them to new heights and realms of experience.
Verse 3
Whenever I’m alone with you
You make me feel like I am free again
Whenever I’m alone with you
You make me feel like I am clean again
The final verse touches on two more aspects of love: freedom and purity. The singer feels “free again” when with their partner, perhaps alluding to the way love can liberate a person from their fears, insecurities, or past regrets. Similarly, feeling “clean again” suggests that love has the capacity to cleanse and heal, wiping away the stains of past mistakes or emotional turmoil.
True Meaning Behind The Cure’s ‘Lovesong’
A tribute to frontman Robert Smith’s long-time partner Mary, the song was written as a wedding present for her in 1988. Smith’s candidness and vulnerability shine through the lyrics, making it one of the most intimate and honest portrayals of his love for Mary.
The Undying Love Amidst Separation
Inspired by the long periods of touring and separation from Mary, Smith penned “Lovesong” to assure her of his unwavering love. With lines like “Whenever I’m alone with you/You make me feel like I am home again” and “However far away/ I will always love you,” the song conveys a powerful message of devotion and commitment.
The repetitive structure of each verse, paired with the dream-like production, creates an immersive experience for the listener, allowing them to feel as if they are witnessing Smith’s deepest emotions.
The Juxtaposition of Love and Darkness
While “Lovesong” is a tender ballad about love, it also serves as a stark contrast to the dark, introspective nature of The Cure’s album “Disintegration.” The simplistic composition and upbeat feel of “Lovesong” provide a refreshing departure from the heavier themes found throughout the rest of the album.
Smith, who had turned to LSD to cope with the pressures of fame, channeled his frustrations and anxieties into exploring the darker side of The Cure in “Disintegration.”
Despite the album’s overall darkness, “Lovesong” shines through as an “open show of emotion,” as Smith puts it. He further explains that the song is “about love, but also the inability to ever really know someone.” This duality of love and vulnerability adds depth to the song and sets it apart from other romantic ballads.
The Timeless Appeal of Sincere Love
“Lovesong” is often considered the “most traditional” song The Cure has ever written, showcasing Smith’s ability to express his emotions without the need for cryptic lyrics or complex metaphors.
Smith described the song as a “cheap and cheerful” wedding present for Mary, but its enduring popularity proves that its heartfelt sentiment resonates with listeners around the world.
311 Version
311’s cover of “Love Song” was released in 2004 as a single and was also featured in the movie “50 First Dates.”
Did you know that it was actually more successful on the Alternative Songs chart than the original version by the Cure? That’s right! It hit number 1 on the chart and even made it to the Billboard Hot 100 at number 59, which was the band’s first single to chart.
But wait, there’s more! “Love Song” also did really well on adult contemporary radio, reaching number 7 on the Adult Top 40 chart, which is pretty impressive, don’t you think?
Now, let’s talk about the music video. It’s pretty simple, with 311 performing the song in a bar. However, there’s a special version of the video that includes scenes from “50 First Dates” and a cameo from former Cure member Lol Tolhurst as a bartender. You can spot him at 2:22 in the video, but unfortunately, this version isn’t available on YouTube.
Other Versions
The Cure’s song “Lovesong” has been covered by numerous bands and solo artists, spanning various styles. Some of the notable covers include A Perfect Circle’s mashup with “Diary of a Madman,” Death Cab for Cutie, Anberlin, Seafood, Tori Amos, and Adele.
Indie bands like The Brunettes, The Big Pink, and Koufax have also put their own spin on the song.
Not only that, but the song has also made appearances on tribute albums, such as Dala’s cover on “Just Like Heaven” and Mariee Sioux’s rendition on “Perfect as Cats: A Tribute to The Cure.”
Whether it’s in trance, acoustic, bossa nova, or psychobilly, “Lovesong” remains a beloved track that has inspired many artists to create their own interpretation.
Conclusion
“Lovesong” by The Cure is a powerful testament to the unwavering love and devotion between Robert Smith and his partner Mary. Its sincere lyrics, juxtaposition with the darker themes of “Disintegration,” and timeless appeal make it a standout track in The Cure’s discography. The song not only highlights the transformative power of love but also serves as a reminder of the importance of vulnerability and emotional honesty in relationships.