The Middle of Love

Song Meaning

Blossom Dearie's "The Middle of Love" isn't just a song; it's a playful, almost childlike exploration of the dizzying effects of being head-over-heels. Dearie, with her signature pixie-like vocals, doesn't delve into the complexities of commitment or the pain of heartbreak. Instead, she captures that initial rush, that feeling of being utterly consumed and slightly absurd, when love first takes hold. The lyrics paint a picture of a world turned upside down, where cows fly and the moon swings precariously – all metaphors for the disorienting, irrational joy that accompanies new love. The "riddle" of life becomes secondary to the intoxicating puzzle of romance. It's a feeling so intense it's "hot as a griddle." Dearie's genius lies in her ability to distill complex emotions into simple, evocative images. The repeated "Hey diddle diddle" evokes a nursery rhyme, suggesting a return to innocence and wonder. The heart, described as a "fiddle for love," implies a constant, almost manic, outpouring of emotion. There's a sense of urgency too, a call to embrace the feeling without reservation. "No one forbid it/You better get with it," Dearie urges, acknowledging the almost primal pull of desire. It’s about surrendering to the overwhelming nature of love, not fighting it. Ultimately, the song meaning of "The Middle of Love" rests in its celebration of vulnerability and abandon. It's an invitation to revel in the delightful chaos of new romance, to embrace the absurdity, and to allow oneself to be swept away by the sheer, unadulterated joy of it all. The nonsense syllables, "skoo doody doo", act as a lighthearted refrain, almost mocking the seriousness that often accompanies discussions of love. It’s a reminder not to overthink it, to simply enjoy the ride. Dearie's playful delivery and deceptively simple lyrics create a timeless ode to the exhilarating, slightly ridiculous, experience of falling in love.