"The Courtesy Of Kings" by John Mellencamp tells the story of a colorful woman the singer once knew. This woman had a penchant for drinking and flirting with other people. In the morning, she would feel remorseful and apologize for her behavior, only to repeat it again. She found solace in the company of strangers and would sing to find comfort. The woman had pictures of Cuban artists and paintings from Rotterdam, indicating a love for art and culture. However, she had trouble keeping her promises and staying true to them. She would profess her deep love for the singer but then spew insults and anger at him, showing her unpredictable and volatile nature. Despite her beauty and a smile that was hard to resist, the woman had a devilish side and a heart that could be cruel. She would talk about judgment and forgiveness, while disregarding the feelings of her other lovers. She seemed indifferent to the consequences of her actions, never showing much consideration for others. Eventually, the singer and the woman parted ways in an unspecified location. He hasn't seen her since then, but she left a lasting impact on his mind. Her lies had a captivating quality, almost like a hymn, and he wonders if he would still recognize her if he saw her again or if she would remain a distant dream. Despite the tumultuous relationship, the singer reflects on the love she used to bring into his life. He ponders the courtesy he could show her if they were to meet again, signifying the complexity of human emotions and the enduring impact of past relationships.
