"Baby Plays Around" is a song recorded by Anne Sofie Von Otter and Elvis Costello, released in 1989. The song explores the themes of love, heartbreak, and longing. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is in a tumultuous relationship with a woman who constantly leaves him alone. Despite the narrator's deep love for her, she frequently goes out without him, leaving him feeling abandoned and hurt. The line "She's all I have worth waiting for, but baby plays around" implies that she is his everything, the one he patiently waits for, but she continues to engage in infidelity. The narrator admits to being the last person to find out about his partner's actions, which indicates a sense of naivety or blindness on his part. He realizes that in order to hold onto her, he must let her go, even though it causes him great pain. The line "I wish to God I didn't love her so" expresses the conflicted emotions he feels. The narrator tries to stay strong and maintain his pride, but his internal suffering becomes evident. He mentions that his partner is unaware of how much she hurts him, highlighting the lack of communication and understanding in their relationship. Despite his efforts to salvage their love, it seems futile as she continues to engage in her careless actions. The chorus emphasizes the heartbreaking reality that the narrator is just a plaything to his partner. He struggles to accept this harsh truth, as he is deeply in love with her. The line "It's not open to discussion anymore" suggests that their relationship has reached a point where there is no more room for negotiation or resolution. While his partner enjoys a glamorous and carefree lifestyle, the narrator is left feeling lonely and trapped. He lives a mundane existence, pacing the worn-out floor, while she embraces a more exciting and unpredictable life. The line "She's all I have worth living for" conveys his desperation and dependence on her. Ultimately, "Baby Plays Around" tells a story of unrequited love, betrayal, and the emotional struggles of a one-sided relationship. It delves into the complexities of human emotions and the pain that can result from loving someone who constantly plays with your heart.
