Everyday I write the book
Costello (Elvis) Lyrics

The lyrics of "Everyday I write the book" by Elvis Costello can be interpreted as a commentary on love, relationships, and the power dynamics within them. The song explores themes of disillusionment, false promises, and the singer's perception of the other person's behavior.

In the opening lines, the singer challenges someone who claims to not know what love is, suggesting that they should know better because of their age and experiences. The mention of finding strange hands in one's sweater and a dreamboat turning into a footnote suggests that the singer has experienced betrayal and disappointment in love. This sets the stage for their mindset and emotions throughout the song.

The line "I'm a man with a mission on two or three editions" could imply that the singer is determined to chronicle their experiences through writing. It suggests that they are actively observing and reflecting on their relationships, perhaps through the lens of a writer or storyteller.

The chorus, "And I'm giving you a longing look, everyday, everyday, everyday I write the book," emphasizes the frequent and ongoing nature of the singer's writing. It suggests that they are constantly adding to their narrative, continuously documenting their experiences and emotions.

The song then moves into a more specific exploration of the singer's relationship with the other person. The mention of chapters in the book signifies different stages or moments in their relationship. Chapter One suggests an initial lack of harmony between the two, but Chapter Two marks the singer falling in love with them. The reference to the other person promising to stand by them in Chapter Three implies a commitment, but the later chapters reveal the other person resorting to old tricks, betraying the singer's trust once again.

The lyrics further delve into the singer's admiration for the other person's physical attributes and charm. They describe the other person's walk, talk, attempts to kiss, and even the sound of their laughter, all captured in several paragraphs. The singer also acknowledges both the compliments and cutting remarks received from the other person, suggesting that their words and actions deeply impact the singer's emotions.

The final section of the song expresses the singer's frustration with the other person's inability to differentiate between a lover and a fighter. The reference to a "perfect world" where everyone is equal suggests a hypothetical scenario where equality should prevail but does not. The singer's possession of the film rights and a mention of working on a sequel implies a desire for control and a continuation of their story, even in an idealized setting.

In summary, "Everyday I write the book" explores the complexities of love, disappointment, and the power dynamics within relationships. It highlights the singer's ongoing reflection and documentation of their experiences, while also conveying their longing and frustration in dealing with the other person's behavior.