The song "The Lovers That Never Were" by Elvis Costello explores themes of longing, love, and missed opportunities. The lyrics depict the narrator's desire for a deeper connection with someone and their frustration with the barriers that prevent it. The narrator expresses their constant need for companionship, but they also shut themselves off from the world in order to protect themselves. They acknowledge that without this special person, they would be alone, trapped only in a photograph. The phrase "All of the clocks have run down" and "Lover beware" implies that time is running out, and the warnings signify that their relationship may not have a happy ending. The narrator hangs on to every word that the other person says, hoping for something more than just a friendship. However, the other person seems to be playing a game, keeping the narrator waiting and unsure of their true intentions. The chorus suggests that they will be the "lovers that never were," emphasizing the missed opportunity for a deeper romantic connection. It implies that if they can't be together as lovers, they won't be able to salvage even a friendship. The song also highlights the narrator's belief in the other person, despite their apparent deception. They believe in their love and trust that the other person won't lie to them. They mention that as long as the sun shines in someone's eyes and the trees bloom, there will always be hope for unfulfilled dreams and possibilities. Towards the end, the narrator asks the person to tell them something, whether it's a declaration of love or a goodbye. The phrase "get your hands dirty" suggests that the other person is hesitant or afraid to commit fully to a relationship. Ultimately, the song portrays the unrequited love and longing of the narrator, and the sadness that comes from a relationship that never fully develops. It conveys the pain of missed connections and the uncertainty of whether love will ever be reciprocated.
