All Would Envy

Sting's song "All Would Envy" delves into the complexities of a relationship between an older man and a younger woman, exploring themes of envy, societal expectations, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who, despite being old enough to be her father, wins the affection of a young woman through his wealth and charm. The young men around them are envious, nursing their grievances as they watch her being treated like a queen, showered with flowers and limousines. This relationship, however, is not as idyllic as it seems on the surface.

The song highlights the superficiality of high society, where knowing glances and weekend gatherings mask deeper issues. The older man feels invigorated and more masculine, while the young woman initially enjoys the luxurious lifestyle. However, the ticking clock serves as a constant reminder that time is passing, and life is moving on. Despite her outward happiness and denial of boredom, the young woman finds herself increasingly disconnected from her friends and the activities she once loved, like dancing.

As the song progresses, the cracks in their seemingly perfect life become more apparent. The young woman spends nights away, seeking the joy of dancing and perhaps a little more romance, while the older man remains stuck in his ways, resorting to sleeping pills to cope. The final lines of the song pose a poignant question: who would envy this older man and his beautiful young wife now? The initial envy of their relationship fades as the reality of their discontent becomes clear, revealing the hollowness behind the facade of wealth and charm.