"Oliver's Army" by Elvis Costello and The Attractions was released in 1979 and is a social and political commentary on the issues prevalent during that time. The song uses satirical lyrics to convey its message. The song opens with the line "Don't start me talking, I could talk all night," suggesting that the narrator has a lot to say about the world around them. They feel compelled to speak their mind and try to make a difference. However, their thoughts often take them into a dream-like state as they ponder the state of the world. The line "Called careers information, have you got yourself an occupation?" highlights societal expectations and pressures to conform to a specific career path. The narrator questions the significance of a person's occupation, implying that there are more important issues to address. The chorus, "Oliver's army is here to stay, Oliver's army are on their way, and I would rather be anywhere else but here today," introduces the concept of "Oliver's army." The term "Oliver" is a reference to Oliver Cromwell, a historical figure known for his military exploits. Costello uses this metaphorically to represent the oppressive forces present in society, such as the government or the establishment. The narrator expresses a desire to be elsewhere, indicating dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. The song mentions "Checkpoint Charlie," a famous border crossing during the Cold War era, indicating the tension and lack of smiles associated with it. The line "Murder mile" refers to a dangerous neighborhood or area, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation being discussed. The lines "One more widow, one less white n****r" draw attention to racial tensions and the loss of lives caused by conflicts and violence. It highlights the fragility of human life and criticizes the detrimental impact of racial discrimination. The lyrics also touch on global issues, mentioning Hong Kong, London, Palestine, and the presence of different ethnic groups. The lines "London is full of Arabs" allude to the wave of immigration and cultural diversity in the city. The song addresses the potential for conflicts and the possibility of different regions being overrun or dominated by foreign powers. The song acknowledges the contrast between the professional career of the narrator, which provides safety and security, and the dire circumstances faced by others. The lyrics mention Mr. Churchill, alluding to the power and influence of political leaders. The possibility of being sent to Johannesburg suggests the narrator attempting to help those who are unlucky or unemployed by offering them employment opportunities in another country. Overall, "Oliver's Army" serves as a critique of societal issues such as political oppression, racism, and the consequences of conflicts. Elvis Costello and The Attractions use their lyrics to shed light on these problems, highlighting the need for change and a better world.
