Meaning of "An Audience With The Pope" by Elbow

The lyrics of "An Audience With The Pope" delve into the theme of a consuming and irresistible love. The opening lines, "Sweet Jesus, I'm on fire / She has the sweetest, darkest side," highlight the intense passion and allure the narrator feels towards the subject of their affection. The reference to iron and steel being unable to hold the narrator emphasizes the power this person holds over them.

The lyrics convey the narrator's willingness to make sacrifices for their loved one. They see themselves as "easy bruised" but unable to resist this person's magnetism. The line "And the things that she's asked me to do / Would see a senior saint forgetting his name" suggests that their loved one's requests test their boundaries, going beyond what is expected or conventional. It showcases the extent to which the narrator is willing to go to fulfill their beloved's desires.

The repetition of the line "I have an audience with the Pope" signifies the narrator's high status and importance in the world, paralleling the power and significance they feel when they are with this person. They feel like they can save the world, but they would drop everything if their loved one says they need them. This portrays a selfless and unconditional love, where the narrator is willing to put their own interests and responsibilities aside for the sake of their beloved.

The repeated refrain of "But if she says she needs me, she says she needs me / Everybody's going to have to wait" showcases the narrator's unwavering devotion. It highlights the urgency and importance they place on being there for their loved one, even if it means making others wait.

Overall, the lyrics convey a love that is all-consuming, intense, and willing to make sacrifices. It explores the concept of prioritizing someone's needs above all else, even if it means putting the world on hold.