She's My Best Friend

Lou Reed's song "She's My Best Friend" is a heartfelt tribute to a unique and deeply personal relationship. The lyrics paint a picture of a bond that transcends the ordinary, highlighting the special connection between the narrator and his best friend. This friend is not just any person; she is someone who understands him on a profound level, especially when he is feeling down. The repetition of the phrase "dow-dow-dow-dow-dow-down" emphasizes the depth of his emotional lows and the comfort his friend provides during these times. Reed's use of the term "certainly not your average girl" suggests that this friend is extraordinary, someone who stands out from the crowd and offers a unique kind of support and understanding.

The song also delves into surreal and somewhat dark imagery, such as the lines about Mullberry-Jane and Newspaper Joe. These characters and their bizarre circumstances add a layer of complexity to the song, suggesting that life is filled with strange and often painful experiences. The mention of Mullberry-Jane making jam and then having her feet cut off, resulting in jelly rolling in the street, is a vivid and unsettling metaphor. It could symbolize the unexpected and harsh turns life can take, yet through it all, the narrator's best friend remains a constant source of solace and understanding.

Lou Reed's musical style often blends rock with poetic and sometimes cryptic lyrics, and "She's My Best Friend" is no exception. The song's structure, with its repetitive chorus and verses filled with vivid imagery, creates a sense of intimacy and raw emotion. The references to being by the window where the light is fake and the narrator not being around add to the feeling of isolation and longing. Yet, despite these feelings, the presence of the best friend offers a glimmer of hope and connection. This song is a testament to the power of friendship and the unique bonds that can help us navigate the complexities of life.