Meaning of "Everyday I Write the Book" by Elvis Costello & The Attractions

"Everyday I Write the Book" explores the theme of love and relationships, presenting a narrative of the singer's experiences and interactions. The lyrics carry a sense of introspection and reflection, as the singer analyzes the nuances and complexities of love. The song is structured like a book, with each chapter representing a different stage or interaction in the singer's romantic journey.

In the first verse, the singer questions the listener's understanding of love, claiming that they are old enough to know better. They describe the disappointments and disillusionments that can arise when romantic expectations don't meet reality, symbolized by finding "strange hands in your sweater" and a dreamboat turning into a mere footnote. The concept of a man with a mission in two or three editions suggests that the singer's experiences serve as a narrative guidebook for others.

As the song progresses, the narrative unfolds further. The second verse introduces different chapters, indicating the various stages of the singer's relationship. The listener is taken through the ups and downs, from falling in love in Chapter Two to being deceived in Chapters Four, Five, and Six. The singer captures their emotions and observations about the other person through vivid imagery, expressing both affection ("The way you walk, the way you talk and try to kiss me and laugh") and criticism ("all your compliments and your cutting remarks").

The chorus repeats the phrase "everyday I write the book," emphasizing the ongoing nature of the singer's storytelling. They take ownership of their experiences and emotions, using their pen and electric typewriter to capture their thoughts and reflections. The lyrics suggest that even in a perfect world where everyone is equal, the singer would still maintain control over their narrative, owning the film rights and working on the sequel. This highlights their agency in shaping their own story and the significance they attach to recording and communicating their experiences.

Overall, "Everyday I Write the Book" explores themes of self-reflection, personal agency, and the complexities of love and relationships. The lyrics present a narrative structure that allows the singer to express their thoughts and emotions, capturing both the positive and negative aspects of their experiences.