Elvis Costello and The Attractions：Meaning of I Turn Around Songmeaning

The song "I Turn Around" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions is about a tumultuous relationship where one person is trying hard to resist their feelings for the other. The lyrics suggest that the narrator sometimes doubts the existence of the other person and questions their intentions. The repeated line "Pinch me 'cause I don't believe it, Kiss me 'cause it feels like a hit" reflects the conflicting emotions and confusion the narrator feels towards this person. They are unsure of whether to believe in the relationship or if it's just an illusion. The lyrics also mention how the other person's presence is fleeting - "I turn around and you're not there" - which adds to the narrator's frustration and longing for stability in the relationship. The line "The less I see of you, the more I care" emphasizes the idea that the more distant the other person becomes, the stronger the narrator's feelings grow. The song also compares the other person to Harry Houdini and the Invisible Man, suggesting that they are elusive and difficult to understand. This further adds to the theme of uncertainty and confusion in the relationship. Overall, "I Turn Around" explores the complexities and challenges of a relationship where one person continuously plays with the emotions of the narrator while they struggle to decipher their true feelings.