The song "Sweet Misery" by John Denver is about the struggles and challenges we all face in life, and how we can choose to either let those troubles bring us down or find happiness despite them. At the beginning of the song, Denver acknowledges that he has experienced his fair share of trouble in his life and wants to help someone who may be going through a similar situation. He warns that allowing the trouble to consume you will only bring you down and make you feel defeated. Denver personifies this trouble as "Sweet Misery," describing it as a companion that finds comfort in causing pain and making people feel alone. He emphasizes that Sweet Misery doesn't care about your happiness and will follow you everywhere, finding joy in making you suffer. To contrast the negative influence of Sweet Misery, Denver introduces the idea of finding happiness and overcoming your troubles. He offers a solution by suggesting to adopt one of his dog's puppies, symbolizing loyalty and companionship. This new friend will be a source of love and support, and will help you become a winner in life. As the song progresses, Denver expresses his happiness for someone who has found their own happiness and overcome their troubles. He encourages them to not let their newfound joy be overshadowed by Sweet Misery. Denver believes that if you embrace happiness, it will uplift you and keep you smiling through life's challenges. In summary, "Sweet Misery" is a song about acknowledging the existence of troubles and challenges, but choosing to find happiness and overcome them rather than letting them bring you down. It emphasizes the power of companionship, both human and animal, in supporting and uplifting us through difficult times.
