"15 Petals" by Elvis Costello is a song that reflects on a past relationship and the emotions associated with it. The lyrics describe the narrator's love for someone they spent 15 years with. The opening lines, "One for every year I spent with you. Jewels and precious metals will never do," suggest that the love shared between the narrator and their partner cannot be measured by material possessions. The lyrics convey a sense of deep affection, acknowledging that the narrator loves their partner both in their imperfections and their straightforwardness. The line "Words won't obey they do as they please, and all I am left with are these..." reveals the struggle the narrator faces in expressing their feelings. They find it difficult to put their love into words, possibly due to a lack of concentration or an overwhelming surge of emotion. The repetition of the chorus, "15 Petals, one for every year I spent with you. Jewels and precious metals will never do," emphasizes the significance of their time together. The petals symbolize the memories and experiences shared throughout their relationship, while highlighting the inadequacy of material possessions in capturing their love. As the song progresses, it touches upon the challenges of being apart. The line "One for every hour that we're apart, tears and useless battles I'll never start" suggests that the narrator refuses to engage in pointless arguments or shed tears when they are separated. It shows their commitment to maintaining their love despite the distance. The mention of Mussolini highway and a frankincense tree signifies a specific place where the narrator and their partner have been together. It could be a metaphorical representation of the different experiences and adventures they shared. The line "You take me to places where I'd never go, I love you more than you know" expresses the narrator's gratitude for the new experiences and growth they gained through their relationship. The final repetition of the chorus, "15 Petals, scattered in the path where you will tread, 15 Petals of vivid red," highlights the impact the relationship had on the narrator. The red petals symbolize their enduring love and serve as a reminder of the memories they shared together. The mention of a wine-bar vamp and a Panzer Kommander with no hair in place could be interpreted as metaphorical or symbolic references, but their exact meaning is open to interpretation. Overall, "15 Petals" is a heartfelt song that explores the depth of love, the challenges of separation, and the lasting impact of a significant relationship.
