Whistle For The Choir

The song 'Whistle For The Choir' by The Fratellis captures the essence of unrequited love and the allure of someone who seems just out of reach. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is enamored with a woman who appears to be indifferent to his affections. The setting is a big city, a metaphor for a place filled with possibilities yet also a space where one can feel incredibly isolated and lost. The protagonist sees himself as a 'beggar' and the object of his affection as a 'queen,' highlighting the perceived social or emotional distance between them.

The chorus of the song addresses the contradiction in the woman's behavior. She claims not to be lonely, yet her actions suggest otherwise. The man is drawn to her, despite recognizing that she might be playing games with him ('It's just like you to come and go'). The use of terms like 'silly girl' and 'stupid girl' could be interpreted as playful teasing or a reflection of his frustration with the situation. The singer's emotional turmoil is evident as he expresses how her mere presence can make him feel elated or devastated.

The song also touches on the theme of the night and its association with loneliness and introspection. The early morning hours bring clarity to the singer, as he walks alongside the 'ghost of every drinker' who has also made mistakes. This line suggests a shared human experience of regret and longing. The repeated assertion that the girl is 'irresistible' underscores the idea that the heart wants what it wants, even if the mind knows better. The song's catchy melody and upbeat tempo contrast with the wistful, yearning lyrics, creating a bittersweet anthem for those who have ever pined for someone who seems just beyond their grasp.