"I Stand Accused" is a song by Elvis Costello and The Attractions from their album "Punch the Clock" released in 1983. The song explores the theme of unrequited love and the anguish that comes with it. The lyrics describe the protagonist, who is accused of being in love with someone who belongs to another person. Despite facing accusations, the protagonist cannot deny their strong feelings for this person. They express their longing for a touch from this person, even though they know it is a hopeless situation. The protagonist believes that if loving someone could be considered a crime, then they have been guilty for a long time. The song mentions being on a witness stand, implying that their love for this person is so undeniable that they wouldn't be able to lie about it. They are willing to accept their guilt and face the consequences of their love. The protagonist wants the world to know that they were a victim of circumstances, unable to control their emotions. The lyrics also suggest that the protagonist's love for this person has affected their mental state. They claim that their love is so intense that it borders on insanity. They describe being disturbed and unable to help what they did at the time. In the end, the protagonist appeals for a witness to support their emotions and feelings. They want someone to validate their love and help explain why they are accused and guilty of loving this person. The song emphasizes the protagonist's willingness to accept their fate and the intensity of their unrequited love. Overall, "I Stand Accused" conveys the pain and desperation that comes with loving someone who belongs to someone else, highlighting the inner turmoil and longing that the protagonist experiences.
