Cross-Eyed Mary
Iron Maiden · Eddie's Archive [2002]
Who would be a poor man a beggerman, a thief
if he had a rich man in his hand
Who would steal the candy from a laughing baby's mouth
if he could take it from the money man
Cross-eyed Mary goes jumping in again
She signs no contract but she always plays the game
She dines in Hampstead village on expense accounted gruel
and the jack knife barber drops her off at school
Laughing in the playground gets no kicks from little boys
would rather make it with a letching gray
Or maybe her attention is drawn by Aqualung
who watches through the railings as they play
Cross-eyed Mary finds it hard to get along.
She's a poor man's rich girl and she'll do it for a song
She's a rich man's stealer but her favour's good and strong
She's the Robin Hood of Highgate helps the poor man get along
Laughing in the playground gets no kicks from little boys
would rather make it with a letching gray
Or maybe her attention is drawn by Aqualung
who watches through the railings as they play
Cross-eyed Mary goes jumping in again
She signs no contract but she always plays the game
She dines in Hampstead village on expense accounted gruel
and the jack knife barber drops her off at school
Cross-eyed Mary
Ooohh, Mary
Cross-eyed Mary
About Cross-Eyed Mary
"Iron Maiden's 'Cross-Eyed Mary' stands as a defining track from the band's 2002 compilation *Eddie's Archive*, showcasing the group's signature blend of heavy metal and theatrical storytelling. The song features the iconic mascot Eddie, who appears in various forms throughout the album, reinforcing the band's long-standing tradition of incorporating fantasy and horror themes into their music. With its driving rhythm and melodic hooks, the recording exemplifies the power metal style that has characterized Iron Maiden's career since the 1980s. The track serves as a testament to the band's ability to maintain their unique identity while evolving their sound over decades. It remains a staple for fans of the genre, highlighting the enduring appeal of their narrative-driven approach to heavy metal.