A Gentle Ballad of Love’s Enduring Mystery: Don Williams’ “That’s the Thing About Love”
For those of us who have spent decades immersed in the tapestry of country music, certain names evoke a sense of comfortable nostalgia and heartfelt storytelling. Among these luminaries stands Don Williams, the “Gentle Giant” whose baritone voice and poignant lyrics captured the essence of love, loss, and the quiet wisdom gleaned from life’s experiences. Released in 1980, “That’s the Thing About Love” stands as a quintessential example of Williams’ artistry, a song that explores the enduring yet perplexing nature of love with a simple elegance that transcends generations.
Background
Born in Texas in 1939, Williams’ musical journey began early, playing guitar and singing in local bands throughout his teenage years. After a stint in the Air Force, he found success as a songwriter, penning hits for artists like Charley Pride and Bobby Bare. It wasn’t until the late 1970s, however, that Williams truly stepped into the spotlight as a recording artist. His smooth vocals, devoid of the twang often associated with country music, resonated with a wider audience. “That’s the Thing About Love” was released on his 1980 album “It Doesn’t Get Better Than This,” a record that solidified his place as a country music icon.
The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar figure, setting the stage for Williams’ signature melancholic yet comforting vocal delivery. The lyrics, penned by songwriter Bobby Braddock, unveil a timeless truth about love: its ability to surprise and confound us. The first verse paints a picture of a seasoned observer of life, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of love:
“I’ve seen love that bloomed in the springtime of May And love that burned on through the winter’s cold gray I’ve seen love that faded like roses in June And love that was evergreen, bloom all year ’round”
This opening sets the tone for a song that celebrates the multifaceted nature of love. There’s no single definition, no roadmap to follow. Love can blossom unexpectedly, defying the odds and thriving in the most unlikely circumstances. Conversely, love once thought to be eternal can wither and fade, leaving behind a bittersweet ache.
The chorus, a simple yet profound statement, encapsulates the song’s central theme:
“That’s the thing about love, you never know why One heart will break while another gets by It’s a mystery, a sweet mystery That’s the thing about love”
These lines resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the power, and sometimes the pain, of love. The reasons why love takes hold, why it flourishes or fades, remain a mystery. This lack of certainty, however, doesn’t diminish its power. Love, in all its complexity, is a force that shapes our lives, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.
“That’s the Thing About Love” is more than just a country song; it’s a testament to the universal human experience. With its gentle melody, relatable lyrics, and Williams’ masterful delivery, the song offers solace and understanding. It reminds us that love, in all its perplexing glory, is a fundamental part of what makes us human.
Sally Wilson