"The World of Broken Hearts" is a song by Elvis Costello and The Attractions, which was released in 1977. The song portrays a bleak and desolate world, where people feel lonely and isolated despite being surrounded by others. Through its lyrics, the song captures a sense of hopelessness and despair. The world described in the song is depicted as a crowded place where everyone feels alone. It is a place where dreams are abandoned and sleep becomes a luxury, yet strangely, the protagonist doesn't seem to mind. This suggests that they have accepted their fate and have become accustomed to the sadness of this world. The song also emphasizes the idea that once you enter this world, there is no escape. The line, "When they let you in, you'll find there's no way out," reflects the feeling of being trapped and unable to break free from the cycle of broken hearts and desolation. The repeated phrase, "in a world of broken hearts," further emphasizes the theme of heartbreak and the emotional struggles that individuals face in this world. It implies that everyone in this world has experienced pain and disappointment in some way. The repetition of this phrase also emphasizes the pervasive and all-encompassing nature of this brokenness. Overall, "The World of Broken Hearts" portrays a somber and melancholic reality where individuals are trapped in a cycle of loneliness and heartbreak. The song uses vivid imagery and a poignant tone to convey the sense of despair and resignation that permeates this world.
