Ephemeral Departures Leave Enduring Storms | Suzie Lightning | Elvis Costello

"Suzie Lightning" is a song by Elvis Costello, released in 1981 on his album "Trust". The song tells the story of Suzie, a woman who has left her lover for another man. Throughout the song, Elvis Costello uses his distinctive vocal style and poetic lyrics to paint a vivid picture of Suzie's departure.

The lyrics of "Suzie Lightning" are full of clever wordplay and metaphorical language. For example, when Elvis sings "You can't have too much of a good thing / And that's what she said as she was leaving", he's using the phrase "good thing" to refer both to Suzie herself and the relationship they had. This ambiguity adds depth and complexity to the lyrics, making them more open to interpretation.

One of the most striking aspects of "Suzie Lightning" is its use of imagery. Elvis Costello is a master of creating vivid pictures with his words, and this song is no exception. When he sings "She left me for a man / Who was two years older than Jesus", the image of an ancient man being surpassed in age by Jesus is both humorous and poignant.

The song's title, "Suzie Lightning", is also significant. Suzie herself is compared to lightning throughout the song, suggesting that her departure has left a lasting impact on the narrator. This theme of lingering emotional scars is a common thread throughout Elvis Costello's work.

Despite its melancholic subject matter, "Suzie Lightning" is an upbeat and catchy tune, with a driving beat and memorable melody. This contrast between the song's themes and its tone adds to its appeal, making it one of Elvis Costello's most beloved tracks.