Meaning of "So Swell When You're Well" by Aretha Franklin

The lyrics of "So Swell When You're Well" by Aretha Franklin depict a complex relationship where the singer's emotions are constantly in flux. The repeated refrain of "You're so swell, baby, when you're well" emphasizes the idea that the partner is at their best when they are not consumed by illness or emotional turmoil. The fluctuating nature of the partner's behavior, love, and mood swings create a sense of unpredictability and instability in the relationship. The frustration and disappointment felt are evident in lines like "Fool that I am not to put you down" and "You build me up, and then you let me down." The song captures the struggle of loving someone imperfectly and the challenges of maintaining a relationship when faced with constant highs and lows. Overall, it conveys a message of resilience and acceptance amidst the turmoil of loving someone who can't seem to find stability.