"Shot With His Own Gun" is a song by Elvis Costello and The Attractions from their album "Punch the Clock" released in 1983. The song explores themes of betrayal, disappointment, and the consequences of one's actions. The lyrics depict a situation where someone, possibly a man, feels a sense of disappointment and exposure after being intimate with someone who knows their secrets and personal flaws. The line "undressed by a man with a mind like the gutter press" suggests that their partner has seen through their facade and exposed their true self. The chorus "Shot with his own gun, now dad is keeping mum" metaphorically portrays the person facing the consequences of their own actions. It implies that the individual's own wrongdoing has come back to haunt them, leaving them speechless or unable to justify themselves. It also hints at the idea of a father figure being involved, possibly symbolizing authority or moral values. The lyrics further highlight the individual's deteriorating state of mind and their inability to connect emotionally with others. The lines "Losing his touch with each caress" and "Leaves without feeling" suggest a lack of genuine emotional attachment or fulfillment in their relationships. The line "Somebody has to pay for the one who got away" implies that there are consequences for the person's actions, and they are seeking retribution or justice for someone who has managed to escape their grasp. The song also touches upon themes of escapism and self-destruction. The lines "Let's get loaded and forget" suggest using substances or distractions to numb the pain and escape from reality. The lyrics ultimately convey a sense of sadness and introspection, highlighting the self-destructive nature of the protagonist's actions and the negative impact they have on their own well-being. "Shot With His Own Gun" serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of deceit, emotional detachment, and the pursuit of shallow desires.
