Maxwell's Silver Hammer by The Beatles tells the darkly humorous story of Maxwell Edison, a student who turns into a killer. Throughout the song, he uses his 'silver hammer' to commit murders. The song's key themes include the duality of human nature, the unexpectedness of violence, and the dark underbelly hidden beneath a seemingly charming and intelligent exterior. Moments of particular poignancy include Maxwell's deceptive charm contrasted with his violent actions, and the juxtaposition of the song's upbeat melody with its sinister subject matter.