Rope — Elvis Costello

Down by the harbourside A boat is fastened by a length of rope. It was a perfect match, Dreaming of escape, Feeling almost detached. Look beneath the waves - The seabirds diving down into black water.

The morning bells begin, Schoolchildren chant and spin. A length of rope Below a hanging tree, Like cruel secrets some of us turn out to be.

Should our love increase, We are all released like statues from marble.

While in a prison yard, They're taking turns to guard A length of rope. Are you too weak to fight? Picking up a thread and then stretching it tight.

Look beneath the waves - The seabirds diving down into black water. Still our love increased, We are all released like statues from marble.