Crocodile
XTC · Nonsuch [1992]
That she left me for him
Scene one standing
Crushed on landing
You may have walked out
But I'll swallow up my fate
Scene two sitting
Man in kitchen
Bit and cold lifeless
Like the burger on my plate
But there's one emotion I'm afraid of
Hear him scratching gently to be fed
I can't stand it when he sits there smiling
I don't want him nesting in my head
Crocodile, no, you won't make me jealous
That she left me for him, so get away
Crocodile, no, you won't make me jealous
I'm not letting you in
Scene three lying
(Through his backteeth)
Speared and dying
(Bitten beneath)
I'll crawl the wall to hand there
Skinned and stuffed with drink
But there's one emotion I'm controlling
Green eyed monster with his jaws spread wide
(But he's your pet now)
I can't stand it when he sits there crying
(You can't run away and hide)
I don't want to throw myself inside
Crocodile, no, you won't make me jealous
That she left me for him, get away
Crocodile, no, you won't make me jealous
I'm not letting you in, so get away
Crocodile, no, you won't make me jealous
That she left me for him, so get away
Crocodile, no, you won't make me jealous
I'm not letting you in, oh, get away
Crocodile with the jaded, jealous smile
Crocodile with the jaded, jealous smile
Crocodile with the jaded, jealous smile
Crocodile with the jaded, jealous smile
Crocodile
XTC's "Crocodile" stands as a defining track from their 1992 album Nonsuch, capturing the band's signature blend of art-rock intricacy and whimsical storytelling. During this era, the group moved away from their earlier new wave energy toward a more sophisticated, orchestral sound that emphasized complex arrangements and lyrical depth. The song exemplifies their ability to merge playful imagery with a melancholic undercurrent, a hallmark of their mature discography. As part of a celebrated body of work, the recording showcases the band's evolution into a studio-centric ensemble, prioritizing texture and composition over live performance dynamics. This piece remains a testament to their enduring influence on alternative rock, offering listeners a glimpse into a period where their songwriting reached a peak of creative refinement and emotional resonance.