A song about found love? Arnie says yes.
Is it possible that the entire text of the song is on depressing prelude to the love forlorn FINALLY finding love in the fuzz guitar solo at the incredible end of the song?
Consider the feeling and tone of the guitar solo at the end. It isn't anything like being depressed at being loveless. In fact, Richard Carpenter told the guitarist to "rip it up" after sticking to the melody for 5 bars. Who is going to feel energized by the universe enough to "rip it up" if you are loveless?
The text of the song stands. Fine. The protagonist is lonely and headed south. Then, guitar at the end reveals an entirely new page to the story. A heroic moment. A power moment. A moment of strength. A moment of … love.
Did Richard intend this additional "chapter"? Probably not. The Muse decided to include it anyway. Listen and see if you agree. The guitar begins 2:55 in.
