The song "My Funny Valentine" was not originally written by Elvis Costello and The Attractions, but they performed a cover of it. The song was originally composed by Richard Rodgers and the lyrics were written by Lorenz Hart. It was first featured in the musical "Babes in Arms" in 1937. The lyrics of the song describe someone's affection for their romantic partner, highlighting their unique qualities and quirks. The line "My funny valentine, sweet comic valentine" suggests that the person they are addressing brings joy and laughter into their life. They express that this person makes them smile not only with their looks but with their heart. The lyrics also mention the unconventional physical appearance of the person, using phrases like "Your looks are laughable, unphotographable." This implies that the person's beauty may not conform to societal standards but is still appreciated and cherished by the singer. The line "But you're my favorite work of art" further emphasizes the singer's admiration and love for the person. The lyrics then ask some rhetorical questions about the person's appearance and intelligence, such as "Is your figure less than Greek?" and "Are you smart?" These questions imply that the person may not possess the physical or intellectual qualities often seen as ideal, but the singer is unbothered by this. They appreciate their partner just the way they are and do not want them to change. The final lines, "Don't change a hair for me, not if you care for me," reinforce the singer's love and acceptance for their partner. They want their valentine to stay the same and remain true to themselves. The last line, "Each day is Valentine's day," signifies that the singer's affection for their partner is constant and everlasting. Elvis Costello and The Attractions's version of "My Funny Valentine" captured the essence of the original song and added their own musical interpretation to it. Their arrangement and Costello's vocal delivery may have added a personalized touch to the song, making it resonate with their own style and emotions.
