How Much I Lied
Elvis Costello · Elvis Costello Limited Edition Collector's Box Set - Amazon.Com E [2007]
It's so hard to say the words I feel
This fancy that I'm on's been going on too long
It's time to stop pretending things are real
'Cause I've been living deep in sin, I've been living blind
And I just don't know what's right or wrong
To take a chance on losing you is such a silly thing to do
A chance I might wake up and find you gone
Blue, so blue, my love is burning blue
Any private flame could be a lie
Blue, so blue, my love still burns for you
But I know I'll only make you cry
A thief can only steal from you
He cannot break your heart
He can never touch the precious things inside
Someone like you should surely be
Miles and miles away from me
Then you'd never care how much I lied
So try to understand the pain
It takes so long when I explain
Please don't you forget how much I lied
How much I lied
How Much I Lied
Elvis Costello's "How Much I Lied" stands as a poignant exploration of regret and deception within his signature blend of jazz-inflected pop and rock. Recorded for the 2007 collector's box set, the track exemplifies his ability to weave complex emotional narratives into tight, melodic structures. The song reflects Costello's enduring interest in themes of personal failure and the consequences of dishonesty, delivered with his characteristic vocal precision and rhythmic drive. As part of his broader discography, this recording showcases his continued evolution as a songwriter who balances commercial appeal with literary depth, maintaining a distinct voice in the contemporary music landscape.