"Our Little Angel" by Elvis Costello is a song that tells the story of a woman who is both admired and misunderstood. The lyrics describe her as someone who is isolated from the crowd, wearing a white dress that serves as a symbol of her mysterious nature. While her friends speak fondly of her, her enemies criticize her openly. The song suggests that many people are attracted to her, thinking they can please her, but they are foolish to believe so. The narrator warns that they won't be able to make any difference in her life, as she is constantly changing her mind. The line "there's nothing you're thinking tonight that tomorrow won't change" conveys the unpredictability of her actions and emotions. The cabaret setting and the mention of canned laughter reflect a sense of artificiality and pretense in the world she inhabits. The lonely hearts club clientele mentioned in the lyrics are portrayed as lost and unsure of how to behave. The song implies that the woman is elusive and not easily understood by others. The narrator continues to emphasize that no one can have a lasting impact on her; she remains a mystery to those who try to love her. The analogy of a chainsaw running through a dictionary reflects the woman's ability to cut through words and break down any attempts to define or understand her. Overall, "Our Little Angel" explores the complexity and enigma of this woman's character, highlighting the struggle of those who try to connect with her. The song suggests that she is constantly changing and cannot be influenced, leaving those who try to understand her in confusion and uncertainty.
