Song Meaning
The lyrics of "Wonder" capture the breathtaking, almost unbelievable experience of new life coming into being. A narrator addresses their "darling," marveling at what they've created together. It's a deeply intimate scene, filled with a sense of awe and a touch of bewildered fascination.
The central tension arises from the repeated phrase, "It's weird and it's wonderful, dear." This isn't just a simple celebration; it's an honest acknowledgment of the profound strangeness inherent in creation. The lyrics explicitly state, "it was only me and you / That made this three come out of two," framing the arrival of a third person as a direct, almost magical outcome of their union.
The craft here is particularly striking in its blend of the abstract and the concrete. The archaic verb "wrought" suggests a powerful, almost divine act of creation, yet it's immediately followed by incredibly specific, physical details: "An ankle, an earlobe, an elbow bone" or "All tendons and ribcage and beating heart." These images ground the abstract wonder in the tangible reality of a developing body, making the miracle feel intensely real. Even the whimsical detail of "A'tumblin' in Dublin" adds a unique, personal flavor to this universal event.
Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they articulate the complex, dual nature of bringing life into the world. The constant return to "weird and it's wonderful" builds a powerful emotional rhythm. The final line, however, offers a gentle resolution: "It's weird, but mostly wonderful, dear." This subtle shift perfectly encapsulates the overwhelming, affirming joy that ultimately triumphs over any initial bewilderment, leaving the listener with a profound sense of affection and awe.