"Battered Old Bird" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions tells the story of a dysfunctional and troubled household. The song focuses on the landlady's husband, who returns to town after leaving his family ten years ago to serve the ministry. The husband's arrival is portrayed as dark and ominous, with constant rain adding to the gloomy atmosphere. The tenant's boy, upon seeing the husband, greets him and swears in French. This angers the husband, who accuses the woman of teaching the child inappropriate language. He suggests that both the woman and the child should be punished and confined to a coal-hole. The chorus suggests that the husband is a "Battered Old Bird" who is living a stagnant and miserable life. The lyrics mention a place where time stands still and the mention of taking little pink pills, possibly referring to medication to escape reality. The second verse focuses on the strained relationship between the husband and the wife. The husband mocks the wife, criticizing her for being a hypocrite and referring to her past failed relationships. The wife defends herself, saying that curse words spoken by children are better than the dark thoughts she has about the house. The song then moves on to describe the other occupants of the house. There are two old maids living on the first floor who seem to resent each other. Next door, there is a seemingly mild-mannered man who has committed a horrific act by killing a visitor's child. Despite his actions, he escapes his guilt by consuming alcohol and sleeping pills. On the second floor lives the "Macintosh Man," who is described as always being bundled up in his overcoats. He is constantly typing and seems to live a reclusive and secretive life. He has a peculiar habit of drinking burgundy for breakfast. The final verse introduces a boy who is believed to have great potential and is expected to accomplish great things. However, the narrator warns that such high expectations can lead to trouble. They have seen others rise and fall and believe that the boy needs a dream that extends beyond the confines of his current environment. The song ends with a disturbing line suggesting that the boy's pieces are already scattered in the attic, implying that he is damaged or broken in some way. Overall, "Battered Old Bird" portrays a broken and dysfunctional household, highlighting the struggles and hardships of its inhabitants. The song delves into themes of neglect, abuse, secrecy, and unrealized potential.
