"Chemistry Class" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions is a song that explores themes of attraction, manipulation, and the consequences of mixing different personalities together. The lyrics depict a protagonist who is infatuated with someone and willing to go to extreme lengths to get their attention. In the verses, the song describes the protagonist's admiration for the person they are pursuing. The lines "She throws back her hair [hands] and she shows you her mouth / The breath that I waste trying to ruin your life" suggest that the person they desire is attractive, but also elusive and untouchable. The protagonist feels a sense of frustration in their attempts to win their affection. The chorus shifts the focus to the protagonist's desire to gain intellectual and emotional control over the person they are pursuing. The line "You've got a chemistry class, I want a piece of your mind" is a metaphorical expression of wanting to understand and possess their thoughts and feelings. However, the protagonist is aware that their actions could have a negative impact and cause damage ("You don't know what you started when you mixed it up with mine"). The second verse reveals the protagonist's insecurities and feelings of inferiority. They mention being mocked and rejected, symbolized by being "chopped up in butcher's school" and being "thrown out of the academy of garbage." Despite these setbacks, the protagonist is determined to keep trying to make others laugh and seek approval, even though they don't fully know how to navigate social situations. The song also touches upon the idea of experimentation and the consequences that can arise from it. The lines "Sparks are flying from electrical pylons / Snakes and ladders running up and down her nylons" portray a sense of danger and unpredictability associated with pursuing someone. The lyrics suggest that accidents and mistakes are inevitable but can serve as opportunities for growth and learning. Overall, "Chemistry Class" delves into the complexities of attraction, the challenges of self-expression, and the risks involved in pursuing someone. It highlights the desire for control, acceptance, and understanding in relationship dynamics, while also acknowledging the potential repercussions of such pursuits.
