The song "Toledo" by Elvis Costello and Burt Bacharach tells a story of regret and longing for someone who is far away. The lyrics describe the protagonist's inner turmoil after a phone call with their loved one. The blinking light by the cradle symbolizes the missed connection and distance between them. The protagonist admits to living with a lie, possibly referring to being unfaithful or hiding their true feelings. They contemplate calling their loved one, knowing that their voice will betray their emotions. The fear of being caught in a lie is expressed through the line "You'll hear my voice - something is bound to betray it." The song then shifts focus to the town of Toledo, highlighting the irony that its name hasn't gained much recognition or prominence. The mention of Ohio and a Spanish citadel (possibly a metaphor for a distant dream or ideal) adds to the theme of longing and unfulfilled desires. The protagonist acknowledges their mistake and attempts to minimize its significance by claiming that the other person didn't mean anything to them. However, they realize that their remorseful eyes will show the truth, and forgiveness may not be possible. The chorus repeats the references to Toledo, Ohio, and the Spanish citadel, emphasizing their insignificance in comparison to other places like Florence, Alabama, Paris, or Rome. These other locations represent more desirable and romantic destinations, highlighting the loss and unfulfilled dreams in the protagonist's life. Overall, "Toledo" portrays a complex emotional journey of regret, longing, and the consequences of one's actions, while also capturing the sense of unattainable dreams and the weight of secrets.
