The song "You Hung The Moon" by Elvis Costello draws upon themes of loss, grief, and deception. The lyrics describe a homecoming fanfare, where families eagerly await the return of their loved ones. However, instead of their expected family members, they are met with a charlatan or impostor figure. The song questions why these families continue to fall for these tricks without learning their lesson. The chorus, "You hung the moon from a gallows in the sky, choked out the light from his blue lunar eye," metaphorically suggests that someone, possibly the charlatan figure, has taken away the brightness and hope represented by the moon. The shore is described as a parchment, implying emptiness or a blank canvas, and the sea is mentioned as having no tide, conveying a sense of stillness and absence since the departure of the loved one. The lyrics suggest that the fallen, presumably soldiers, can only be observed through a glass but cannot be physically reached or heard. The song highlights the sorrow and confusion experienced by those left behind, with the "drunken ground" symbolizing the instability and tumultuous emotions that arise. Towards the end, the lyrics shift to a more confrontational tone, urging to "slap out his terrors and sneer at his tears." This could be a call to dismiss the charlatan's false emotions and manipulations. The song speaks of dealing with deserters and suggests harsh consequences, alluding to military or battlefield situations. The final lines reinforce the loss suffered since the loved one's departure and the mourning that comes with it. In summary, "You Hung The Moon" reflects on the pain of losing someone dear, the deceit that can occur in times of loss, and the inability to move on or find peace without closure.
