Waiting For The End Of The World

Elvis Costello · Elvis Costello Limited Edition Collector's Box Set - Amazon.Com E [2007]

The man from the television crawled into the train.

I wonder who he's gonna stick it in this time.

Everyone was looking for a little entertainment,

so they'll probably pull his hands off

when they find out his name.

And then they shut down the power all along the line,

and we got stuck in the tunnel where no lights shine.

They got to touching all the girls were to scared to call out.

Nobody was saying anything at all.

We were waiting for the end of the world,

waiting for the end of the world,

waiting for the end of the world.

Dear Lord I sincerely hope you're coming

'cause you really started something.



Things got back to normal as the train began to roll again.

We got to the station about twenty minutes later.

The legendary hitchhiker says that he knows where it's at.

Now he'd like to go to Spain or somewhere like that,

with his two-tone Bible and his funny cigarettes,

his suntan lotion and his castanets.



He was waiting for the end of the world,

waiting for the end of the world,

waiting for the end of the world.

Dear Lord I sincerely hope you're coming

'cause you really started something.



And then the bride, the groom, the congregation and the priest

all got onto the train when we were three stations east, yeah.

Hiding from a scandal in the national press,

they had been trying to get married since they stole the wedding dress.

You may see them drowning as you stroll along the beach,

but don't throw out the lifeline till they're clean out of reach.

Waiting For The End Of The World

Elvis Costello's 'Waiting For The End Of The World' stands as a defining track from his 2007 compilation, showcasing his signature blend of sharp lyricism and melodic sophistication. Recorded with his characteristic precision, the song captures the tension between personal anxiety and broader societal dread, a recurring theme in his later work. The track exemplifies his ability to weave complex narratives into accessible pop structures, drawing on influences ranging from classic rock to modern indie sensibilities. As part of his extensive discography, this recording reinforces his status as a vocalist and songwriter who consistently challenges listeners with both intellectual depth and emotional resonance, maintaining relevance through his unique approach to songwriting and performance.