The song "Hey Clockface / How Can You Face Me?" by Elvis Costello explores themes of time, longing, and betrayal in a relationship. The lyrics depict the protagonist's frustration with a clock, referred to as "Clockface," that seems to control and manipulate time, affecting his relationship with his partner. In the first verse, the protagonist accuses Clockface of stealing precious moments and kisses from his partner's smile. He expresses his dissatisfaction with living in the hours stolen by time and vows not to waste any more time. The second verse highlights the protagonist's confusion and frustration with Clockface's behavior. When he is away from his partner, time seems to move slowly, but when she is with him, Clockface reminds them that their time together is limited. The protagonist feels betrayed by time, which he had considered a friend. The bridge of the song describes a specific moment when the protagonist's partner betrayed him. The moon shines through the window, indicating a late hour, and the sun rolls round again, signifying the passage of time. The protagonist wishes he could turn back time before the betrayal occurred. The chorus reflects the protagonist's anger toward Clockface, who has taken away his ability to feel anything. He feels empty and broken, with no hope of happiness. In the final verse, the protagonist confronts Clockface, questioning how it can still face him after the pain it has caused. He refers to a broken vow, suggesting that time has violated its promise to keep things constant. The protagonist poses the question of how time can continue to exist in his life after betraying him. Overall, "Hey Clockface / How Can You Face Me?" portrays the protagonist's frustration and sorrow over the passing of time, the loss of a loved one, and the feeling of betrayal. The song captures the emotions and complexities of a relationship where time seems to be playing tricks on the protagonist's heart.
