The song "Farewell, OK" by Elvis Costello & The Imposters seems to be a breakup or farewell song with a touch of bitterness and disappointment. The lyrics imply that the narrator's relationship with someone has come to an end, and they express their dismay and inability to move on after what the other person has done. The lines "I thought you'd change, and get a little humble" suggest that the narrator had hoped for a positive change in the person they were involved with but was let down. The comparison of the person's strange disposition to a drummer hitting a cymbal implies that their behavior is attention-seeking or exaggerated. The song also touches on feelings of regret and longing. The mention of two words that sound like "pray" but are not revealed indicates the internal struggle the narrator is facing. They may be torn between wanting to forgive and forget or seeking some form of retribution or closure. The lyrics further describe a scene at a ballroom or a social event where the narrator experiences a mix of emotions. The sound of the bass, the rumble, and the cry create a chaotic atmosphere that mirrors the turmoil within the narrator. The reference to a stain on the narrator's hands and the imagery of marble pillars, curtains, and lace evoke a sense of a glamorous but tainted setting. It symbolizes the negative memories and associations that the narrator cannot shake off since their encounter with this person. The chorus repeats the phrase "Farewell, okay," emphasizing the finality of the situation and the narrator's acceptance of the farewell. The song concludes with a mixture of longing and resignation, highlighting the fleeting nature of happiness and the struggle to find solace. Overall, "Farewell, OK" seems to explore the emotions surrounding a failed relationship, the frustration of unfulfilled expectations, and the difficulty of moving on.
