"The Imposter" is a song by Elvis Costello and The Attractions from their 1980 album, "Get Happy!!" The lyrics talk about a person who tries to be tough and acts like a "lad," even though they are not truly that person. The narrator expresses confusion as to why others cannot see through this facade. The song suggests that the individual is just pretending to be someone they are not, the imposter. The lyrics also mention that the subject of the song has never gone as far as they claim to have and has always been intelligent. The line "all our boys are really girls at heart" implies that underneath their tough act, they are actually sensitive or vulnerable. The chorus repeats that the person is only an imposter, suggesting that their actions and behavior are inauthentic. They aren't who they present themselves to be. The verse "When I said that I was lying I might have been lying, never let me hear you say you're not trying" can be interpreted as the narrator questioning the honesty and authenticity of the imposter. It is like a challenge for the imposter to prove themselves. The lyrics also mention that the imposter may disappoint and bring trouble in the form of double vision and double jointedness. It suggests that their actions will lead to negative consequences and possibly tears. Overall, "The Imposter" is a critique of someone who tries to project a tough persona but is ultimately revealed to be insincere and false. The song emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and not attempting to be someone you are not.
