Wishing Well

Terence Trent D'arby's 'Wishing Well' is a captivating exploration of love's complexities, wrapped in vivid imagery and metaphors. The song opens with the protagonist engaging in a clandestine romance, symbolized by 'kissing like a bandit' and 'stealing time' under a sycamore tree. The reference to Cupid sending valentines suggests a love that feels both fated and whimsical. The lyrics convey a sense of gradual but deepening affection, as the protagonist admits to falling in love 'slowly but surely,' highlighting the natural progression of their feelings.

The chorus introduces the metaphor of a wishing well, a symbol of hope and desire. The 'wishing well of butterfly tears' and 'crocodile cheers' juxtapose innocence and deceit, suggesting that love is a blend of genuine emotions and potential heartbreak. The act of wishing for love at a well implies a longing for something magical and transformative, yet the mention of 'crocodile cheers' hints at the possibility of insincerity or false promises.

In the second verse, the imagery becomes more intense and sensual. The protagonist describes a passionate connection, likening their actions to 'monkey see, monkey do' and expressing a desire to be a 'midnight rambler.' The rapid heartbeat and the loud ringing of 'sugar bells' evoke the physical and emotional rush of love. This verse underscores the urgency and intensity of their feelings, contrasting with the more measured tone of the first verse. Through these vivid metaphors and dynamic contrasts, 'Wishing Well' paints a complex picture of love that is both exhilarating and fraught with uncertainty.