Meaning of "Miracle Man" by Elvis Costello

The lyrics of "Miracle Man" delve into themes of self-doubt, insecurity, and the pressure to measure up to someone else. The speaker laments that their partner never asks what they want, only why they want it. This lack of understanding and empathy leaves the speaker feeling misunderstood and unheard. They confess that they are lonely and crave emotional connection, but are only appreciated for their physical attributes or material possessions. The line "Why do you have to say that there's always someone who can do it better than I can?" reflects the speaker's deep insecurity and fear of not being enough for their partner. Despite their efforts to please and fulfill their partner's desires, the speaker comes to the realization that nothing they do will ever make them a "miracle man." The repetition of the phrase "A miracle man" at the end of the lyrics emphasizes the speaker's longing for validation and acceptance, even if they know deep down that it is unattainable.

The lyrics also touch upon the pressures and expectations placed on men in relationships. The speaker's partner seems to constantly compare them to others, reinforcing the idea that there is always someone better. This creates a sense of competition and undermines the speaker's self-esteem. The line "I hear they're giving you a bad reputation just because you've never been denied" suggests that the partner's reputation and the power dynamics at play contribute to the speaker's feelings of inadequacy. The lyrics highlight the importance of emotional connection, understanding, and acceptance in a relationship, rather than solely focusing on physical attributes or material possessions.