Why?
Elvis Costello: Brodsky Quartet Lyrics
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Are you crying ?
Why?
Does he still love me?
Will you take care of me ?
If you both love me so
Why don't you love each other
Mummy's gone missing
Daddy's on fire
Daddy's on fire
These lyrics convey the confusion, pain and desperation of a child witnessing the breakdown of their parents' relationship. The child is grappling with intense emotions and trying to comprehend why their father isn't present and why their mother is missing. The repetition of "Why" throughout the lyrics emphasizes the child's desperation for answers and understanding.
The lyrics also bring to light the impact of parental conflict on children. The child's question of "If you both love me so, why don't you love each other?" highlights the confusion and hurt children feel when they see their parents' love for them co-existing with animosity towards each other.
Overall, the lyrics of "Why" are a powerful commentary on the pain and confusion of children caught in the crossfire of parental conflict.
Line by Line Meaning
Why is Daddy not here?
What is the reason for Daddy being absent?
Are you crying ?
Are tears flowing from your eyes?
Why?
What is the reason for the situation?
Does he still love me?
Is the affection from Daddy to me still existent?
Will you take care of me ?
Can I count on you to provide for me?
If you both love me so
As you both claim to love me ardently
Why don't you love each other
What is the reason for a lack of affection between you two?
Mummy's gone missing
My mother is nowhere to be found
Daddy's on fire
My father is engulfed in flames
Daddy's on fire
My father is engulfed in flames
Daddy's on fire
My father is engulfed in flames
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: ELVIS COSTELLO, IAN DEREK BELTON, PAUL MARTIN CASSIDY, JACQUELINE LUCY KATHERINE THOMAS, MICHAEL HENRY THOMAS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind