Meaning of "I'm Not Angry" by Elvis Costello

"I'm Not Angry" by Elvis Costello delves into themes of betrayal, hurt, and acceptance. The lyrics paint a picture of a painful situation where the protagonist overhears their partner with someone else, leading to feelings of anger and betrayal. However, as the song progresses, the protagonist undergoes a transformation from anger to a state of indifference. The repeated line "I'm not angry anymore" reflects a journey towards acceptance and moving on from a situation that caused pain. The reference to a "vanity factory" could indicate a struggle with self-worth and the realization that relying on external validation is futile. The idea that there is no such thing as an original sin suggests a sense of forgiveness and understanding that everyone makes mistakes. Ultimately, the song explores the complexities of human emotions in the face of betrayal and the process of letting go and moving on.