Meaning of Girlfriend in a Coma by The Smiths

The Smiths' classic song, 'Girlfriend in a Coma,' is a thought-provoking and poignant track that delves into the themes of love, devotion, and the complexities of relationships. At first glance, the song's title may seem alarming, but as we take a closer look at the lyrics, we discover a multitude of unexpected and imaginative themes that serve to enhance the overall message of the song.One standout lyric in the song is "There were times when I could have 'murdered' her, but you know, I would hate anything to happen to her." This line highlights the intensity of emotions within a relationship. While it may be metaphorical, it speaks to the idea that love has the power to evoke strong emotions, including ones that may seem extreme at times. Through this lyric, the song explores the idea that even during difficult moments, the protagonist's care and concern for his girlfriend override any negative feelings he may have.Another important lyric is "Do you really think she'll pull through?" This line poses a question that goes beyond the literal interpretation of a girlfriend in a coma. It delves into the concept of hope and uncertainty in life. The lyric invites us to reflect on situations where the outcome is uncertain and how we grapple with maintaining hope in difficult times. This theme resonates with the overarching theme of the song, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones.In the chorus, the repeated line "Girlfriend in a coma, I know, I know, it's serious" reinforces the gravity of the situation at hand. However, when we examine it from a metaphorical standpoint, it can symbolize the ups and downs we experience in relationships. Relationships can sometimes become stagnant or fall into a state of emotional "coma" where the excitement and passion are lost. The protagonist acknowledges the seriousness of the situation, hinting at his desire to revive the relationship and infuse it with new life.The line, "Would you please let me see her?" from the second verse, touches upon the theme of longing and the desire for connection. It not only reflects the protagonist's desperation to be close to his girlfriend physically but also hints at a deeper emotional longing. This lyric highlights the human need for intimacy, companionship, and the fear of losing touch with the ones we hold dear.Lastly, the outro's lyric, "Let me whisper my last goodbyes, I know, it's serious," evokes feelings of acceptance and finality. It speaks to the bittersweet nature of goodbyes and the acknowledgement of the seriousness of the situation. This lyric serves as a reminder that life is fleeting, and we must appreciate the moments we have with our loved ones.In conclusion, 'Girlfriend in a Coma' explores an array of imaginative and unexpected themes that complement the overarching theme of love, devotion, and the intricacies of relationships. The standout lyrics discussed above delve into the intensity of emotions, the importance of hope, the ebb, and flow of relationships, the longing for connection, and the bittersweet nature of farewell. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song invites us to contemplate the fragility of life and the significance of treasuring the relationships we hold dear.