She

Elvis Costello's 'She' is a song that delves into the complexities of a man's feelings towards a woman who captivates him in every possible way. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman who is multifaceted and enigmatic, embodying both the joys and sorrows that come with love. Costello's words suggest that this woman is not just a person but a collection of experiences and emotions that have a profound impact on the narrator's life.

The song's verses explore the duality of the woman's character, comparing her to the changing seasons and the extremes of beauty and the beast, famine and feast. This poetic imagery suggests that she represents both the highs and lows of life, capable of bringing immense happiness or deep sorrow. The narrator acknowledges that she may not be what she appears on the surface, hinting at a depth of character that is not immediately visible. The reference to her smile being 'reflected in a stream' suggests a fleeting, possibly elusive nature of her happiness, which the narrator seems to cherish deeply.

The emotional core of the song is revealed in the lines where the narrator describes the woman as the reason for his survival, the purpose of his existence. Despite the potential for pain and the acknowledgment of her imperfections, he embraces both her laughter and tears, indicating a deep and unconditional love. The repetition of 'She' at the beginning of each verse emphasizes the centrality of this woman in the narrator's life, and the song concludes with the simple yet powerful declaration that she is the meaning of his life. Costello's 'She' is a tender ode to the enduring and transformative power of love, capturing the essence of how one person can become the focal point of another's existence.