"The Flirting Kind" is a song by Elvis Costello and The Attractions. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who used to be known for her flirtatious nature. Despite this, a certain boy falls in love with her and decides to commit to a relationship with her. However, the girl is puzzled about how to be happy and satisfied. She suggests that they use their imagination and experiment with their love life, suggesting that they make love as a form of punishment. This behavior leads to her being labeled as "the flirting kind." The song implies that despite her reputation and behavior, the girl seeks contentment and true love. She believes she is too beautiful to simply give in to her fate. The lyrics also suggest that she may have experienced heartbreak in the past, as she mentions crying in her sleep for a man who wasn't faithful. The girl's actions seem to reflect a desire for excitement and exploration in love. However, her behavior becomes problematic as she leaves relationships abruptly, seemingly unable to commit and eventually succumbing to the fate of being labeled as "the flirting kind." Overall, the song explores themes of love, desire, and the consequences of reckless behavior. It delves into the struggles of a woman who seeks fulfillment but finds herself caught between her own desires and society's judgment.
