Candy
The Byrds Lyrics

The Byrds's song "Candy" can be seen as a commentary on the complexities and illusions of love. The lyrics describe a woman who is drifting in school, perhaps indicating a lack of direction or purpose in her life. Her father is described as a fool, which could suggest that she doesn't have a strong male figure to guide and protect her. The woman is clearly preoccupied with someone, likely a lover, whose face is described as soft and delicate like velvet and lace. The imagery of her lover writing poetry that curls through time and space adds to the dreamlike and illusory nature of the song.

The chorus of the song asks, "Can you give your love away like Candy?" This seemingly innocent question carries a much deeper meaning, suggesting that love is something that can be taken and given away like a commodity. The woman is asked to imagine what it's like to be down on her knees trimming trees, perhaps a metaphor for the sacrifices and compromises one must make in a relationship. The lyrics also mention a lover's lament and general dissent, indicating that love may not always be a happy or fulfilling experience. The woman is also described as receiving "Doctor's orders" that are unkind and bent, which could be a reference to the difficulty of maintaining a good mental or physical health while in a difficult relationship.

Overall, "Candy" is a poignant song that reflects on the complexities of love and relationships. The lyrics suggest that love can be both a joyous and painful experience, and that it can be difficult to navigate the illusions and complexities it presents.