environment | January 30, 2026

The Meaning Behind The Song: Wishing Well by Sananda Maitreya

Table of Contents

The Meaning Behind The Song: Wishing Well by Sananda Maitreya

Below is a table containing information about the song “Wishing Well” by Sananda Maitreya:

TitleArtistWriter/ComposerAlbumRelease DateGenreProducer
Wishing WellSananda MaitreyaJohn OliverIntroducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D’Arby (1987)1987PopMartyn Ware

“Wishing Well” is a popular song from Sananda Maitreya’s debut album “Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D’Arby” released in 1987. The song was written by John Oliver and produced by Martyn Ware.

Now, let’s dive into the meaning behind the lyrics of “Wishing Well.”

Exploring the Lyrics of “Wishing Well”

“Kissing like a bandit stealing time
Underneath the sycamore tree
Cupid by the hour sends valentines
To my sweet lover and me”

The song opens with vivid imagery of a stolen moment shared by two lovers. The mention of a sycamore tree and Cupid’s valentines emphasizes the romantic and enchanting atmosphere surrounding their relationship.

“Slowly but surely
Your appetite is more than I knew
Sweetly, softly
I’m falling in love with you”

These lines express the narrator’s growing affection and attraction towards their lover. The words “slowly but surely” indicate a gradual realization of their deepening emotions. It portrays a sense of vulnerability and surrender as they begin to fall in love.

“Wish me love a wishing well, to kiss and tell
A wishing well of butterfly tears
Wish me love a wishing well, to kiss and tell
A wishing well of crocodile cheers, sing”

These lines introduce the metaphorical “wishing well,” symbolizing the narrator’s desire for love and affirmation. The juxtaposition of “butterfly tears” and “crocodile cheers” represents the potential for both joy and pain in love. The mention of singing suggests a celebration of the emotions and experiences that come with falling in love.

“Hugging like a monkey see, monkey do
Right beside a riverboat gambler
Erotic images float through my head
Say I wanna be (I wanna be your midnight rambler) your midnight rambler”

This stanza continues with playful and sensual imagery. The comparison to monkeys playfully emphasizes their physical closeness. The reference to a riverboat gambler adds an element of excitement and risk. The erotic images floating in the narrator’s head highlight their strong attraction towards their lover. The desire to be their lover’s “midnight rambler” further emphasizes their longing for a deeper connection.

“Quickly but quickly
The blood races through my veins
Quickly, loudly
I wanna hear those sugar bells ring”

These lines depict the heightened physical and emotional response the narrator experiences when they are with their lover. The racing blood and the desire to hear “sugar bells ring” suggest a passionate and exhilarating experience.

“I feel like going on
I feel like going on (Wish me love a wishing well to kiss and tell)
Come on, come on
Erotic images float through my head
Your midnight rambler, baby”

The repetition of “I feel like going on” emphasizes the narrator’s determination to continue pursuing love. The presence of erotic images in their mind and the reference to themselves as their lover’s “midnight rambler” further demonstrates their deep desire and commitment to the relationship.

Throughout the song, Sananda Maitreya’s emotive vocals and the catchy melody create an irresistible combination. The lyrics paint a picture of passionate love, desire, and the yearning for a deeper connection.

Personal connection to “Wishing Well”

“Wishing Well” has always held a special place in my heart. The combination of Sananda Maitreya’s soulful voice and the evocative lyrics never fails to resonate with me. This song takes me back to a time when I was experiencing the rush of falling in love for the first time.

The romantic imagery and metaphors used in “Wishing Well” perfectly capture the rollercoaster of emotions that come with new love. The lyrics remind me of the excitement, longing, and vulnerability that I felt during that period.

Listening to this song now, years later, I am transported back to those moments of youthful infatuation. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of love and the beauty of being fully present and immersed in the experience.

“Wishing Well” is not just a song; it’s a timeless and relatable anthem that reminds us of the magic and complexity of love. It’s a song that continues to captivate listeners across generations, evoking emotions and memories that transcend time.

In Conclusion

“Wishing Well” by Sananda Maitreya is a captivating song that blends soulful vocals with imaginative lyrics. The song explores the themes of love, desire, and the yearning for a deeper connection. The use of metaphors and vivid imagery enhances the emotional impact of the song, making it a memorable and relatable experience for listeners.

Whether you’re experiencing the rush of falling in love, reminiscing about past relationships, or simply appreciating a beautifully crafted song, “Wishing Well” is a timeless and enchanting piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.