FAWM: "Paradoxical Challenges"

Paradoxical Challenges

2025 by @rshakesp

Liner Notes

This rather odd title came from a PHD thesis that a friend at work had published on AI - but I actually thought it fit the tos and fros of everyday relationships far better. So this is my 5th effort on my theme of '12 short nonsense songs about love'. [and I've got a blister from the bass part]

Lyrics

I love her so much She’s a pain in the ass I need her in my life But I need a hall pass She makes me want to laugh She makes me want to scream Is this just a nightmare Or a big wet dream

Paradoxical Challenges

I think I have to leave But I think I might stay I’ll try these double standards For another day I don’t know when to come I don’t know when to go I think its really bad For my growing ego.

Comments

@audreyrussell 2025

This is SO good!! I was drawn to the title, and it didn't disappoint! I love a good rant about cognitive dissonance and inner conflict! The xylophone adds the perfect kind of mania to the mental warfare it's accompanying! And the third iteration of the title line in the chorus is a right primal scream! Abrupt ending appeals to me! Has anyone mentioned the kickass bass line? Of course, as they should. Very enjoyable listen! #tit4tat

@cathreu 2025

This is punk as can be! I love the xylophone and the big wailing chorus, with the ringing chords. Reminds me of joe strummer! Very fun! #tit4tat

@hudders6400598 2025

Fantastic bass ..... the story you tell is one im sure many of us can relate to.....

Oh by the way did I say....fantastic bass? So much so I had to say it twice :)

#tit4tat

@wildrainbow 2025

Well we all have to suffer for our art sometimes lol. Hope the blister healed quickly but it was a good bass line. Really love the chorus and the way each doublet actually is a paradox. Works well. #tit4tat

@erikleppen 2025

Love the short heavy guitar chords in the verse together with that funky bass. The xylophone is a lovely addition that adds a lot of playfulness.

Love how, in the chorus, the strings 'shine through' the rest of the mix.

I also really like the contrast between the verses (fast chords) and the choruses (slow chords). And that high third line of the chorus is really nice and really pops out.

Also, it's kinda strange titles like this that made me pick this.

@ayeahmur 2025

Yeha, this idea of attraction and frustration coexisting is really well done here. Loving that bustling bassline, especially second time around when that awesome weird percussion joins in. Again, another big sing-a-long chorus. Really cool. #tit4tat

@philnorman 2025

The way the rhythm simplifies and opens up in the chorus is so good, like embracing the titular paradox. The jagged stagger of the verses is perfect text painting. There's a little They Might Be Giant peeking through here, which feels like just the right compliment for the cheeky tone. Great write.

@williamjames 2025

The blister is well earned. What a driving bass part! Great title and great lyrics too. These really do fit into a relationships sort of push and pull dynamic.