"Less Than Zero (Dallas Version)" by Elvis Costello is a song that delves into themes of power, manipulation, and corruption surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas. The lyrics use dark and provocative imagery to tell a story from the perspective of a woman named Jenny. The song begins by describing Jenny undressing while her husband participates in a parade for the President. As she looks up from performing a sexual act, she sees her lover on the television. After finishing, her lover throws her onto the bed, signifying a sudden change or shift in power dynamics. This event leads to her lover's death, potentially representing a consequence of crossing certain boundaries. The chorus suggests that Jenny and the narrator are involved in a secretive plot or conspiracy surrounding the President. The mention of turning up the TV is a metaphor for increasing their involvement while avoiding detection. The narrator expresses that even their parents would not suspect their true intentions, emphasizing the secrecy and deceitfulness. The song then references Lee Harvey Oswald, the alleged assassin of President Kennedy. The narrator suggests that someone taking home movies at the crime scene might have captured Oswald's presence. The mention of "a thousand variations" and witnesses in a file implies that there are multiple perspectives and theories regarding the assassination. Jenny, seemingly unaffected by the events, casually suggests that South America is becoming fashionable, highlighting her detachment from the situation. This indifference could symbolize the corruption and morally bankrupt nature of those involved. The final verse brings attention to a smoking pistol, a man on the floor, and Oswald's belief in an understanding with the law. Jenny, now adorned with rubies, turns away, indicating her potential involvement or knowledge in the crime. She directs the conversation towards the future and putting the past behind, implying a desire to move on and avoid accountability. Overall, "Less Than Zero (Dallas Version)" by Elvis Costello explores the complex web of power, manipulation, and corruption surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The lyrics use vivid and allegorical storytelling to convey a sense of secrecy, deception, and indifference in the face of such a significant historical event.
