Some Kinda Love

The Velvet Underground's 'Some Kinda Love' is a fascinating exploration of the complexities and nuances of love. The song, written by Lou Reed, delves into the different forms and perceptions of love, suggesting that no single type of love is superior to another. The lyrics open with a conversation between Marguerita and Tom, setting the stage for a philosophical discussion about the nature of love and its various manifestations. The line 'Between thought and expression lies a lifetime' hints at the profound gap between our internal experiences and how we express them, emphasizing the depth and complexity of human emotions.

The song employs vivid and sometimes surreal imagery to convey its themes. For instance, the comparison of love to a 'dirty French novel' and the idea that 'the absurd courts the vulgar' suggest that love can be both beautiful and grotesque, refined and raw. This duality is further explored in the lines 'Put jelly on your shoulder / Let us do what you fear most,' which encourage embracing the unconventional and confronting one's fears. The recurring motif of 'jelly on your shoulder' serves as a metaphor for vulnerability and the willingness to experience love in all its forms, even those that are uncomfortable or challenging.

The Velvet Underground's avant-garde approach to music and lyrics is evident in 'Some Kinda Love.' The song's structure and content reflect the band's experimental style, blending rock with elements of art and literature. The closing lines, 'Put on your red pajamas and find out,' invite the listener to engage with the unknown and discover the myriad possibilities that love offers. This invitation to explore and experience love in its many forms is a testament to the band's innovative spirit and their ability to push the boundaries of conventional songwriting.