"New Amsterdam" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions is a song that was released in 1980. The lyrics of the song depict a troubled relationship, with the narrator feeling mistreated and manipulated by their partner. The title "New Amsterdam" refers to the old name of New York City when it was a Dutch colony. The song begins with the narrator expressing their frustration and confusion as their partner sends them tulips, mistaking them for lilies. This symbolizes the misunderstandings and miscommunications that occur in their relationship. The partner then acts aggressively and verbally abuses the narrator, leaving them feeling physically and emotionally hurt. As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on how their feelings for their partner have changed. They mention that their head has been turned until it "rolled down the brain drain," suggesting that they have lost their sense or perspective because of this toxic relationship. Despite this realization, the narrator admits that they still can't let go and want their feelings back. The chorus of the song highlights the overwhelming nature of the relationship. The narrator states that the partner's influence has become too much for them to handle. They feel possessed by their partner and desire to break free from their clutches. The reference to speaking "double dutch" to a real double duchess implies that the narrator is willing to go to great lengths to please their partner, even if it means pretending or speaking in a way that is unfamiliar to them. The second verse introduces a change in scenery, as the narrator reminisces about London. They suggest that their partner might be accepted and embraced by the people there, while they still feel like an outsider. This showcases the narrator's feelings of displacement and detachment within the relationship. The song then takes a darker turn, as the narrator finds themselves at the dockside, reminiscent of their past in Liverpool and Rotherhide. They observe people living on the "other side," which could symbolize a different way of life or a different mindset. The narrator suggests that these people are living a life akin to "suicide," possibly implying that they are trapped in similar toxic relationships. In summary, "New Amsterdam" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions portrays a troubled relationship where the narrator feels mistreated and manipulated. The song explores themes of misunderstandings, emotional abuse, and the struggle to break free from a toxic partner's influence.
