Day 5: Storybook Love - Mark Knopfler & Willy DeVille

Song: Storybook Love
Artist: Mark Knopfler & Willy DeVille
Jan 5

Today I have been feeling rather under the weather which manifested in a horrible migraine at the start of the day. Whenever I am sick, as pretty much any human who has taken a breath near me can attest, I seek comfort in my all time favorite movie: "The Princess Bride".  I can't explain how but I am convinced this film is a remedy to virtually anything that ails you.. A "Miracle", you could say. 

That all being said, you can probably guess the origin of today's song. This 1987 classic received an Academy Award nomination for best original song and is performed by Willy DeVille.

A deep and romantic bass sets the mood, as was popular of ballads in the 80s. A perfect slow dance cliche, there is nothing demanding or climatic within the melody. It's soothing and comforting like what we all idealize true love to be. Willy DeVille's vocals are deep and smooth and feel like a warm embrace. Musically, if I am being honest, it is nothing inherently special but it is nostalgic and relaxing none the less; and some days we just need a touch of quiet nostalgia.

The lyrics are perhaps what makes "Storybook Love" a true classic. True to its title, the lyrics are chock full of similes and storybook tropes as a means to depict the depth of our singer's feelings. 

"My love is like a storybook story.

But it's as real as the feelings I feel."

I really love the comparison the lyrics make here. The acknowledgement of the idealized love story and its fantasy being a fiction yet his real feelings are the ideal. I'm weak to romantic fluff like this what can I say. 

Lyric that attacked me:

"He said, "Don't you know I love you oh, so much,

And lay my heart at the foot of your dress?"

She said, "Don't you know that storybook loves

Always have a happy ending?"

Song Color: Soft Peach and Plum

Mood: Peaceful