Some Kinda Love
Lou Reed
Exploring the Depths of Love and Expression in Lou Reed's 'Some Kinda Love'
Lou Reed's 'Some Kinda Love' is a poetic exploration of the complexities and nuances of love and human connection. The song opens with the line, 'Some kinda love, Margarita told Tom,' immediately setting the stage for a conversation between two characters. This dialogue serves as a vehicle for Reed to delve into the philosophical and emotional layers that lie 'between thought and expression.' The phrase suggests that the true essence of love and understanding is found in the unspoken, the space where feelings and thoughts intermingle without the constraints of language.
The lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references, such as 'like a dirty French novel, the absurd court the vulgar,' which evoke a sense of raw, unfiltered emotion. This line suggests that love can be both beautiful and grotesque, a blend of high and low art, much like the novels of French existentialists. Reed's use of the word 'absurd' hints at the existential belief that life is inherently meaningless, and it is up to individuals to create their own meaning. In this context, love becomes a personal, subjective experience, with 'endless possibilities' that defy conventional norms.
Reed's invitation to 'put jelly on your shoulder' and 'put on your red pyjamas' adds a layer of playful absurdity to the song. These lines encourage a sense of spontaneity and experimentation in love, urging listeners to embrace the unconventional and the unknown. The song concludes with a sense of curiosity and openness, encapsulated in the line, 'I don't know, just what it's all about... let's find out.' This ending reinforces the idea that love is a journey of discovery, filled with both uncertainty and excitement.