Accidents Will Happen

Elvis Costello's song "Accidents Will Happen" delves into the complexities and unintended consequences of romantic relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of emotional turmoil and the inevitable mishaps that occur when love and human nature collide. The opening lines, "Oh, I just don't know where to begin," set the tone for a narrative filled with uncertainty and confusion. The protagonist is caught in a web of promises and expectations, symbolized by the line, "Though he says he'll wait forever, it's now or never." This sense of urgency and indecision is a recurring theme throughout the song.

The chorus, "Accidents will happen, we only hit-and-run," serves as a metaphor for the fleeting and often careless nature of relationships. Costello suggests that people often hurt each other unintentionally, leaving emotional scars in their wake. The line, "He used to be your victim, now you're not the only one," highlights the cyclical nature of these emotional wounds, indicating that everyone is both a victim and a perpetrator at some point. This duality is further emphasized by the repeated assertion, "I don't want to hear it, 'cause I know what I've done," acknowledging personal responsibility while also expressing a desire to move past the mistakes.

The song also touches on the idea of superficial connections and the transient nature of modern relationships. Lines like, "There's so many fish in the sea that only rise up in the sweat and smoke like mercury," and "There's so many people to see, so many people you can check up on and add to your collection," critique the disposable nature of contemporary romance. Costello's lyrics suggest that while there are countless opportunities for connection, these interactions often lack depth and leave individuals feeling unfulfilled. The closing lines, "Your mouth is made up but your mind is undone," encapsulate the internal conflict between outward appearances and inner turmoil, a common theme in the song.