☝️ Key Points
- The song deals with earning and spending money
- It conveys the idea of 'clean money' earned through honest work
- The lyrics express the desire to use the money for nice things with a loved one
- There is a reference to corruption and dishonest practices that can be associated with money
- The song encourages reflection on the value of money and the importance of honest work
Interpretation
"Clean Money" by
Elvis Costello is a song that deals with the theme of money and its effects. The lyrics refer to the idea of "clean money", earned through honest work. The song describes how payday comes and the earned money is immediately spent.
In the lyrics it says: "Payday's coming and we wash it away, clean money, clean money." Here, the idea is conveyed that the earned money is spent directly and thus "washed" to keep it pure and clean.
Furthermore, the lyrics mention wanting to spend the money on someone you love: "That's what I want to do, I want to spend it on you." This line expresses the desire to use the earned money for beautiful things and experiences with a loved one.
The lyrics also speak of corruption and dishonest dealings that can be associated with money: "But they won't take my love for tender." Here, it is emphasized that love is not for sale and cannot be bought with money.
Overall, the lyrics of "Clean Money" invite reflection on the value of money and the meaning of honest work. It's about consciously and lovingly spending the earned money, rather than wasting it on dishonest purposes.