Elvis Costello's song "Couldn't Call It Unexpected No. 4" tells a story of a girl who finds solace in the belief that one day her "Prince of Peace" will come. She cherishes a portrait of her father, who has passed away, with a wilted favor still attached to it. She reflects on how others now possess her father's belongings, but she only has his name left. The narrator acknowledges that the story may seem sentimental to some, but emphasizes that eventually everyone will have to make amends in their own lives. There is a sense of doubt in the immortality of love, as represented by the sudden chill that lovers experience. The lyrics then shift to describing a picture of eyes closing, possibly representing death or the realization of mortality. The narrator mentions the faces seen in a fire, perhaps symbolizing the fears and regrets that haunt us. The song takes a vulnerable turn, questioning who is tapping at the window and if a familiar face still lingers there. The room is described as being hot like a furnace, yet the protagonist shivers, hinting at a feeling of discomfort or unease. The shadow of regret is seen on a young mother's face. The song ends with a plea to toll the bell or rock the cradle, indicating a desire for solace or comfort. The narrator expresses a fear of the unknown, hoping for an explanation to believe in something again. Overall, "Couldn't Call It Unexpected No. 4" delves into themes of loss, longing, vulnerability, and the search for meaning in the face of mortality.
