The lyrics of Elvis Costello and The Attractions's song "Green Shirt" convey a sense of surveillance, suspicion, and paranoia. The song seems to be addressing a person, possibly a lover or a partner, who possesses a manipulative and deceitful nature. The "smart young woman on a light blue screen" refers to someone who appears on television. This person enters the speaker's house every night, representing the constant intrusion of media into their life. The lines "And she takes all the red, yellow, orange and green, And she turns them into black and white" suggest that this person distorts reality and simplifies complex matters. The lyrics mention teasing, flirting, and the person's green shirt. These actions and image symbolize the person's deceptive charm and ability to manipulate others. Despite this, the speaker warns that their behavior will eventually catch up with them, as indicated by the line "somebody's gonna get it." The "Quizling Clinic" is a metaphorical location where information is gathered and people are subjected to scrutiny. The shorthand typist in this clinic represents the surveillance state, listening in and gathering secrets. The speaker hopes their name is not on the list of those being monitored. The song also touches on the speaker not being a snitch or a diplomat, implying they are not willing to betray others or play political games. However, the sense of suspicion and surveillance is still prevalent, as indicated by the line "everybody is under suspicion." The lyrics continue with references to an investigation and fingerprints on the speaker's imagination, highlighting the invasive nature of surveillance. The final repetition of the line "You can please yourself but somebody's gonna get it" emphasizes the inevitable consequences of the person's actions. Overall, "Green Shirt" reflects a state of surveillance, paranoia, and the eventual repercussions of manipulative behavior. The song serves as a critique of those who exploit others for their own gain.
