"Abandoned Masquerade" by Elvis Costello is a song that explores themes of deception, hidden emotions, and longing. The lyrics metaphorically describe a costume ball, where people wear masks and disguises to hide their true selves. The line "The glitter on a paint and plaster face" conveys the artificiality and superficiality of the masks people wear. These masks serve as a cover-up for their true desires and shameful acts, as mentioned in the line "Is covering desire and disgrace." The narrator or protagonist of the song reveals that they could potentially have a love affair with someone, but no one suspects it because they are both wearing masks at the costume ball. However, as the magic of the masquerade fades, the narrator finds themselves abandoning the façade. The second verse highlights the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters. The mirror symbolizes self-reflection and shows the protagonist's ability to hide their tears behind a skillful mask. However, as the magic starts to fade, the pain becomes too difficult to conceal, which leads to the abandonment of the masquerade. The chorus suggests that even though the characters may be suffering, they try to hide their pain and appear indifferent. The pool of tears signifies the depth of emotion they can experience while pretending to be nonchalant. The lyrics then express the hope that the other person will understand their own emotions and desires by experiencing a similar level of despair. The final verse conveys a sense of longing and sadness. The narrator expresses a wish that the listener never experiences the same level of despair or understands the emptiness left behind in the absence of a loved one. The illusions created in the masquerade eventually fade away, leaving both characters in an abandoned state, longing for something more genuine. Overall, "Abandoned Masquerade" portrays the complexities of human emotions and the consequences of hiding behind masks to deceive others and ourselves. It calls for authenticity and the courage to face one's true desires and emotions, rather than succumbing to the illusions and empty facades of a masquerade.
