Meaning of "...This Town..." by Elvis Costello

The lyrics of "...This Town..." by Elvis Costello paint a vivid picture of a society obsessed with status, reputation, and material wealth. The various characters described in the song showcase different facets of this shallow environment, where people are judged based on their external appearances and associations rather than their true selves. The motifs of beauty, deceit, and power underscore the importance of image and manipulation within the town. The idea of being a "nobody" until everyone knows you, followed by the shift to being seen as a "bastard" once you gain notoriety, speaks to the ephemeral nature of fame and acceptance in such a society. The juxtaposition of the Fish-Finger King and Mr. Getgood highlights the different avenues individuals may take to achieve recognition, with both ultimately falling victim to the town's harsh judgment. The girl with the eternity rock symbolizes a darker side of ambition, willing to use any means necessary to climb the social ladder. Overall, the lyrics serve as a critique of superficiality, materialism, and the ruthless nature of social hierarchies in contemporary society.