The song "What If I Can't Give You Anything But Love?" by Elvis Costello & The Imposters explores themes of love, secrecy, and personal limitations. The lyrics depict a situation where two individuals share their secrets with each other. They rely on pseudonyms to conceal their true identities, suggesting a secretive and potentially illicit relationship. The protagonist is willing to offer the moonlight falling on someone's face and the stars from above, symbolizing their willingness to provide romance and beauty. However, they express doubt about their ability to give anything beyond love. It implies that they may not be able to offer material wealth or other forms of support. The song also touches upon the protagonist's previous profession of hearing confessions, indicating a willingness to listen to others' troubles and secrets. However, someone else has opened a door of thrilling experiences for their partner, something the protagonist feels they cannot replicate. There is uncertainty about the other person's feelings, as the protagonist asks if they are loved and needed. They acknowledge the difficulty of answering in the dark, highlighting the complexity and potential risks of the relationship. The protagonist anticipates a spark and seeks clarity on the other person's desire for them. They mention returning to their wife in another life, suggesting that their commitment lies elsewhere. This revelation portrays their internal conflict between their current situation and the life they must eventually return to. The chorus reflects on past moments of moonlight on the person's face, indicating their fondness and adoration. However, the protagonist questions if love is the only thing they can offer, potentially implying their insecurities and fear of disappointing the other person. Throughout the song, the protagonist seeks validation and assurance from their partner. They long for reciprocated desire and are uncertain if their love is enough. The lyrics also mention an awkward encounter on the stairs, emphasizing the complexity and challenges of their relationship. Overall, "What If I Can't Give You Anything But Love?" tells a story of a secretive and potentially forbidden romance, filled with doubt, uncertainty, and the limitations of love.
