Tried, Tested and Found True

Song Meaning

This track opens with a direct address to a skeptical listener, immediately framing the narrative as a defense against judgment. The speaker acknowledges the "disbeliever's" scrutinizing gaze but urges them to listen before condemning. The core assertion is one of unwavering authenticity, with the speaker claiming to be "bonafide" and beyond reproach, suggesting their character is so solid that attempts to "disprove it" have failed. The central tension here is the speaker's earnest plea for acceptance versus the listener's ingrained suspicion. The lyrics repeatedly push back against this doubt, with phrases like "You needn't be afraid" and "You needn't be so suspicious." This isn't just about proving innocence; it's about overcoming a deep-seated mistrust that the speaker perceives in the "disbeliever's" "judging" eyes. The most compelling aspect is the metaphor of love as something that undergoes rigorous examination. The repeated line, "My love's been tried, tested and found true," positions the speaker's affection as a verifiable commodity, like a scientific experiment or a legal case with irrefutable evidence. The speaker even points to "the records" and "evidence" to support their claim, implying a history of consistent, escalating devotion – "gave a little more each day." Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their direct, almost defiant sincerity. By framing their love as something that has already passed every conceivable test, the speaker creates a powerful sense of earned trust. The repetition of the chorus acts as a mantra, reinforcing the idea that this love isn't just stated but proven, leaving the listener with a sense of undeniable conviction.