Meaning of Handsome Devil (John Peel Session 18/05/83) by The Smiths

The Smiths' song titled "Handsome Devil" is a playful and provocative exploration of desire, power dynamics, and societal norms. With its catchy melodies and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, the song delves into the complexities of relationships and challenges conventional ideas.One standout lyric that immediately grabs attention is "Let me get my hands on your mammary glands." At first glance, this might seem like a crude and objectifying line. However, when examined more closely, it reveals a subversive commentary on the male gaze and the objectification of women. The lyric confronts the notion that women's bodies are solely meant for male pleasure and challenges the societal expectations placed upon them.Similarly, the line "And let me get your head on the conjugal bed" continues this theme of power dynamics and challenges traditional gender roles. It speaks to the idea of control and dominance in relationships, questioning who holds the power and who is being used for their own pleasure. By juxtaposing the domestic idea of a conjugal bed with the desire for control, the song explores the complexities and contradictions within intimate relationships.Another notable lyric that adds depth to the song is "A boy in the bush is worth two in the hand." On the surface, this might appear to be a simple play on the popular phrase "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." However, this line can be interpreted as a commentary on the perceived value of youth and innocence in society. It suggests that there is a fascination with the unattainable or untamed, but it also suggests that this fascination may be misplaced. The song challenges the notion that youth and beauty have inherent worth, encouraging listeners to question the superficiality of societal standards.In the verse, "And when we're in your scholarly room, who will swallow whom?" the song delves into the power dynamics present in intellectual relationships. It explores the idea of intellectual manipulation and suggests that there is a struggle for dominance in these spaces. By posing the question of who will "swallow" whom, the song challenges the traditional roles of student and teacher, highlighting the tension and complexity that can arise within intellectual exchanges.While the song's themes may be contentious, it is important to recognize that "Handsome Devil" uses irony and satire to critique societal norms and explore the power dynamics in relationships. The provocative lyrics and catchy melody create a juxtaposition that encourages listeners to dig deeper and question the underlying messages embedded in popular culture.Overall, "Handsome Devil" invites us to challenge societal expectations, power dynamics, and the objectification of others. It urges us to examine the complexities of desire, control, and the ways in which these dynamics shape our relationships. Through its imaginative and unexpected themes, the song prompts us to question conventional ideas and consider alternative perspectives.