To Know You Is To Love You (Unfaded Album Mix)

Song Meaning

The lyrics present a fascinating dichotomy: the simple, almost axiomatic statement "To know you is to love you" is immediately complicated by the narrator's own experience. Stevie Wonder's opening lines establish this contrast, suggesting that while loving someone upon knowing them seems natural, knowing *him* isn't as straightforward, yet his beloved still brings him immense happiness, fueling an ever-growing love. This creates a central tension between an idealized perception of love and the messy reality of knowing a person, flaws and all. The repeated bridge, "When I am sad and feelin' down, you always comfort me," anchors the song in a tangible, supportive relationship. It’s this consistent act of comfort that seems to bridge the gap between the narrator's perceived complexity and the beloved's unconditional affection. Syreeta's verses deepen this exploration, framing the beloved's freedom as a key aspect of their essence – "free as the wind." The power of this love is so potent it's almost untamable, yet paradoxically, it's this very strength that allows the beloved to connect deeply, to the point where the narrator feels they are "as much of me as me." This suggests a profound, almost spiritual merging facilitated by the beloved's unwavering support and vibrant spirit. The effectiveness lies in this gentle unraveling of a simple phrase. It moves from a platitude to a complex emotional truth, grounded by the repeated comfort and the ultimate realization of shared identity. The lyrics don't shy away from the difficulty of true knowing, but ultimately celebrate the love that blossoms despite, or perhaps because of, that complexity.