Surprise, Surprise (Sweet Bird Of Paradox)

John Lennon's 'Surprise, Surprise (Sweet Bird Of Paradox)' is a lyrical exploration of the intoxicating and paradoxical nature of love. The song delves into the emotional highs and lows that come with being deeply infatuated with someone. Lennon's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who brings both immense joy and a sense of bewilderment to his life. The repeated references to her as a 'sweet bird of paradox' suggest that she embodies contradictions—she is both a source of comfort and confusion, a natural high and a grounding force.

The song's metaphors are rich and evocative. Describing the woman as 'sweet as the smell of success' and comparing her to a 'willow tree' and a 'breath of spring' highlights her refreshing and life-affirming presence. These natural and positive images contrast with the 'god awful loneliness' Lennon feels without her, emphasizing the transformative power she has over his emotional state. The line 'she makes me sweat and forget who I am' underscores the overwhelming and almost disorienting effect of his love for her.

Culturally, the song reflects the 1970s era's exploration of personal freedom and emotional expression. Lennon's candid admission of his vulnerability and the complexity of his feelings resonates with the broader themes of self-discovery and the search for authentic connections that were prevalent during this time. The repetition of 'sweet sweet love' at the end of the song serves as a mantra, reinforcing the idea that love, despite its paradoxes, is ultimately a sweet and desirable experience.