Warmongers in the Making | Two Little Hitlers | Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello's "Two Little Hitlers" is a song that has been shrouded in mystery since its release in 1979. The song is part of his album "Armed Forces", which marked a significant departure from his earlier work with the Attractions. At first glance, the song appears to be an innocuous ditty about two children, but upon closer inspection, it reveals itself to be a scathing critique of nationalism and militarism.

The lyrics are written from the perspective of a narrator who is observing two young boys, seemingly innocent and full of life, but whose actions betray a disturbing familiarity with violence. They're playing with toy soldiers, using language that's eerily reminiscent of real-life military jargon, and engaging in brutal play-fighting. As the song progresses, it becomes clear that these "two little Hitlers" are not just precocious children, but rather miniature versions of their adult counterparts - people who condone and perpetuate violence as a means to an end.

One of the most striking aspects of this song is its use of language. Costello's lyrics are characteristically witty and biting, but in "Two Little Hitlers", he employs a tone that's both playful and menacing. The chorus, which repeats the phrase "two little Hitlers" with increasing urgency, is particularly effective in conveying the sense of unease that pervades the song.

The song's themes are eerily relevant to today's world, where nationalism and militarism continue to exert a powerful influence over global politics. Costello's music has always been characterized by its sharp social commentary, and "Two Little Hitlers" is no exception. It's a warning about the dangers of unchecked aggression and the insidious ways in which it can be passed down from generation to generation.

Ultimately, "Two Little Hitlers" is a powerful indictment of our society's tendency to glorify violence and its leaders. As such, it remains one of Costello's most important and enduring songs - a warning that we would do well to heed.