In the beginning act of the movie “The Princess Bride”, whenever Wesley says “as you wish”, Buttercup begins to understand that what he means is “I love you”. This works so well (imo) because it is a truth played out in life. The pursuit of a mate has not changed much over time. In a society where we choose our mates, we typically take it cautiously, looking for signs of reciprocation before being “completely” honest. It just saves a lot of awkwardness.
Or was that just me?
My mother tells me the story of how my grandmother was essentially “kidnapped” into marrying, at the hands of a powerful man in her South American country. Grandmother eventually fled to this country with her children. My mom was sixteen years old at that time. It’s from her that I own a significant amount of Inca heritage in my DNA.
For this song, I thought back to the early part of a budding friendship that ultimately became a marriage. We both went slow and weren’t actually “looking”. But there is a point when you know something is forming that is stronger than your resistance. You can give in to it, or you can fight it.
This song is inspired from the specific moment when we first kissed and embraced. We were standing on Del Amo Boulevard by her ’66 Mustang. I told her “I like you. A lot. Don’t leave.” Everything goes in slow motion when you open up. A thousand fears race through your head, but you’re done with pretending something isn’t there. A short, silent eternity passed “waiting” for one another to make the first move and in the end, it was mutual, and very passionate.
Undoubtedly, that was a romantic encounter. But as I wrote last month for Valentine’s Day, romance within the context of practicing love takes on more powerful meaning as time goes by. (I may have not stated all of that, but that’s what I meant)
That young love has long gone away and made way for the practiced type that requires more than words and kisses. This song includes both of those thoughts and wishes.

She Said

I will never leave you 
And I’ll love you forever
I will never leave you 
And I’ll love you forever

If we have lunch together
It don’t mean nuthin’
Don’t mean a thing
You don’t need to call me
And we’ll just split the bill 

I will never leave you 
And I’ll love you forever
I will never leave you 
And I’ll love you forever

Tell me ’bout the books you read
Though I’m not, much of a reader
Just want to hear your voice
To imagine the places you go

I will never leave you 
And I’ll love you forever
I will never leave you 
And I’ll love you forever

Can I walk you to your car
And tell you how much I really like you
If I kiss you on the street
Will you run away from me

She said
Never say never
And forever is a long time
She said
Never say never
And forever is a long time
She said

Hear it here:

She Said – from Mark Wade on Vimeo.

Photograph “A Pair” – Two phoebe during spring rituals.