Unravelling the Sweet Mystique of Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar

8th November, 2023

In the tapestry of modern pop music, few songs have woven a pattern as vibrant and enigmatic as Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar. Released on November 16, 2019, this tantalising track has ripened into a cultural phenomenon with its juicy lyrics and succulent melodies. But what lies beneath its luscious surface? Let’s peel back the rind and explore the layers of meaning in this summer anthem that’s as much about fruit as it is about the thrill of new romance and the euphoria of physical touch.

The Fruity Language of Love

At first listen, Watermelon Sugar is a sun-kissed ode to the sweet throes of summer love. Styles’ lyrics paint a picture of strawberries on a summer evening and the intoxicating rush of a new relationship. But is there more to this song than meets the ear?

The term Watermelon Sugar itself has stirred much speculation. Some suggest it’s slang for the sugar-high one feels in the throes of passion. Others whisper it’s a more direct reference to oral pleasure, a bold nod to female orgasm, as Styles coyly alluded to in an interview with Cosmopolitan. This interpretation adds a layer of sensuality to lines like “I want your belly and that summer feelin’,” transforming a simple craving for fruit into a metaphor for desire.

However, these interpretations are not endorsed by Styles himself, who has left the meaning of the song open to the listener’s imagination. He has said that the song is partly inspired by the novel In Watermelon Sugar by Richard Brautigan, which is set in a post-apocalyptic world where everything is made of watermelon sugar. He has also said that the song is about the initial euphoria of falling in love. Therefore, the song may have different meanings for different people, depending on their own experiences and associations.

A Dedication to Touch

Styles has dedicated Watermelon Sugar to the experience of touching and to that electrifying connection between two people. The repeated chorus of “Watermelon sugar high” becomes an anthem to the physical and emotional high derived from closeness, a theme that resonates deeply in a world where touch has become all the more precious.

This theme is especially relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has limited physical contact and social interaction for many people. According to a study by the University of Oxford, touch deprivation can have negative effects on mental health, such as increased stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Therefore, the song may serve as a reminder of the importance and joy of touch, both in romantic and platonic relationships.

The Belly of the Song

“I want your belly and that summer feelin’”—this line, perhaps the most evocative in the entire song, is ripe with meaning. The belly, a symbol of life and desire in vulgar slang, can also refer to the core, the centre of emotion. In the context of Watermelon Sugar, it’s a raw and vulnerable request, a longing to be close to someone’s most intimate self.

This line contrasts with another line in the song, “Breathe me in, breathe me out,” which implies a more casual and fleeting encounter. The belly, unlike the breath, is not something that can be easily exchanged or forgotten. It represents a deeper and more lasting bond, a desire to be part of someone’s life.

The Melon of Contention

The use of “melon” in vulgar slang often refers to female breasts, adding another layer of sexual innuendo to the song. Styles’ clever wordplay allows the song to dance between the lines of innocence and suggestiveness, making it a track that’s both radio-friendly and rich in subtext.

The use of melon also adds a touch of humour and playfulness to the song, which matches the upbeat and cheerful tone of the music. The song does not take itself too seriously but rather embraces the fun and joy of summer and love.

The Creation of a Summer Classic

Produced by Tyler Johnson & Kid Harpoon and co-written by Mitch Rowland alongside Styles himself, Watermelon Sugar was a labour of love that took nearly a year to perfect. Styles described it as the hardest song to finish on his sophomore album, Fine Line. Yet, this meticulous crafting paid off, as evidenced by the song’s climb to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and its certification as 5x Platinum by the RIAA.

One of the challenges of creating the song was finding the right balance between the melody and the lyrics, as Styles wanted the song to sound both catchy and meaningful. He said that he tried different versions of the chorus, but none of them felt right until he came up with the phrase “Watermelon sugar high.” He said that he liked how the words sounded together and how they captured the essence of the song.

The Cultural Impact

Watermelon Sugar is not just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. It debuted at #60 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually sweetened its way to the #1 spot, becoming Styles’ first single to achieve this feat. The track also garnered Styles his first Grammy Award for “Best Pop Solo Performance,” a testament to its impact.

The song’s success also reflects the growing popularity and recognition of Styles as a solo artist, who has established himself as a versatile and influential figure in the music industry. The song also showcases his distinctive style and personality, which have earned him a loyal and diverse fan base. The song also promotes a positive and inclusive message of love and acceptance, which resonates with many people in a time of uncertainty and division.

Conclusion

Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar is a masterful blend of sweet melodies and rich subtext, a song that celebrates the sweetness of life and the complexities of love and desire. Its catchy chorus and vivid imagery have cemented it as a summer classic, a song that will continue to be savoured for years to come.

As we continue to dissect the layers of Watermelon Sugar, we invite you to taste its sweetness for yourself. Dive into the summer feeling, the high of connection, and the joy of music that Harry Styles has so brilliantly encapsulated in this modern classic.

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