Meaning of "Ice Cream Girl" by Lloyd Cole

The lyrics of "Ice Cream Girl" delve into themes of unrequited love, rejection, and self-doubt. The narrator portrays himself as outdated and unrefined, feeling inadequate and small in the presence of the woman he desires. The repeated mentions of being on the corner waiting for her suggest a sense of longing and desperation, hoping for a sign of her affection. The comparison of himself to a shady politician trying to sell a broken-down car highlights his feelings of deceit and inadequacy in trying to win her over. The reference to "crucifying feelings with fingernails" signifies the pain and torment he experiences in his unreciprocated love. Overall, the song captures the emotions of rejection, longing, and self-doubt that can come with unrequited love.