The Stranger I Love
Kris Kristofferson · Surreal Thing [1976]
I've been a simple man and I've been insane
And I've been a vagabond and I've been a king, yeah
But I've been a better man just trying to please
The stranger I love.
Lost in a wilderness, darker than pain
Drawn to her loneliness just like a flame
The closer we come the more that I lean
The stranger I love.
Bad as I loved her I ain't afraid
We'll be together some lovin' way
I'll be her lover just as long as I can
Then when it's over she'll need a friend.
So I'll take her hand-me-downs I'll take the blame
I'll be a hang around I ain't ashamed
Cause the longer I love her the more I believe
The stranger I love...
The Stranger I Love
Kris Kristofferson's 'The Stranger I Love' stands as a poignant song in his mid-1970s discography, appearing on the 1976 album Surreal Thing. Known for his poetic songwriting and deep, resonant baritone, Kristofferson often explored themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human connection. This track reflects his signature ability to weave narrative depth into country and folk structures, capturing the emotional distance that can exist even within intimate relationships. While the song may not have achieved the immediate chart dominance of his earlier hits, it remains a testament to his enduring craftsmanship. The recording showcases his mature vocal delivery and the sophisticated arrangements that characterized his work during this era, offering listeners a glimpse into the nuanced storytelling that defined his career.