Elvis Costello's song "Anyone Who Had a Heart" is actually a cover of Dionne Warwick's original track released in 1963. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. The lyrics express the pain and longing of someone who is deeply in love with another person who doesn't reciprocate their feelings. The singer believes that anyone who has experienced love would be able to recognize and empathize with their profound love for this person. They dream about the person and express a willingness to do anything for their love. The chorus states that anyone with a heart would embrace the singer's love and not hurt them or be unfaithful. The singer questions why this person, who they love so much, is unable to reciprocate their feelings. The repeated plea of "Why can't you?" highlights their frustration and bewilderment towards their unrequited love. Overall, the song portrays the pain and vulnerability of loving someone deeply and not receiving the same level of love in return. The lyrics emphasize the universal nature of love and the hope for genuine reciprocation from the person they adore.
