Clevor Trever

Ian Dury's song 'Clever Trevor' is a witty and satirical exploration of intelligence, perception, and societal expectations. The protagonist, Trevor, is portrayed as someone who is often underestimated and misunderstood. The lyrics are filled with double negatives and playful wordplay, which serve to both confuse and amuse the listener. This linguistic complexity mirrors the way Trevor is perceived by others—people can't quite figure out if he's clever or not, and this ambiguity is central to the song's theme.

The repeated use of phrases like 'never had no nothing worth having' and 'never said no nothing worth saying' highlights Trevor's perceived lack of accomplishments and meaningful contributions. However, these phrases also suggest that Trevor is aware of how he's viewed and is somewhat resigned to it. The line 'me mouth becomes me head which ain't not all that, clever' indicates that Trevor's words are often misinterpreted, leading to a distorted perception of his intelligence. This reflects a broader commentary on how society often judges people based on superficial criteria rather than their true capabilities.

The chorus, 'Knock me down with a feather, Clever Trevor,' is a sarcastic nod to the idea that Trevor's intelligence is so subtle that it could be easily overlooked. The phrase 'Widebrows wonder whether Clever Trevor's clever' further emphasizes the uncertainty and skepticism surrounding Trevor's intellect. The song ultimately questions the validity of societal judgments and the criteria used to measure intelligence. By presenting Trevor as a 'Jack the Lad,' a term for a carefree and mischievous young man, Dury suggests that Trevor's value lies not in conventional intelligence but in his unique perspective and resilience.

'Clever Trevor' is a clever critique of societal norms and the often arbitrary nature of intelligence. It challenges listeners to reconsider their own perceptions and biases, making it a thought-provoking and entertaining piece of music.