Meaning of Handsome Devil (Live in Manchester) by The Smiths

The Smiths' song "Handsome Devil" takes listeners on a provocative journey, exploring themes of desire, power dynamics, and societal expectations. This live version performed in Manchester adds an electrifying energy to the already charismatic track. While the lyrics may initially appear to be straightforward and explicit, a deeper analysis reveals unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall message of the song.The central theme of "Handsome Devil" centers around the longing and pursuit of a physical connection, primarily driven by desire but also influenced by a need for power and control. The speaker acknowledges their understanding of what hands are for, hinting at a deeper understanding of carnal desires and the potential to fulfill them. This sets the tone for the song's exploration of desire's complexities.One standout lyric is "Let me get my hands on your mammary glands." While it may seem overtly sexual at first glance, it delves into the theme of objectification and the societal pressure to view body parts as objects of desire rather than part of a whole person. The line suggests a desire to possess the physical aspect of a person, acknowledging the shallow and transactional nature of certain encounters.Another notable lyric is "I crack the whip, you skip." On the surface, it alludes to a power dynamic, hinting at a dominant-submissive relationship. However, a closer examination reveals the theme of control and the exertion of power within intimate connections. It challenges traditional gender roles and societal expectations by portraying a situation where the woman takes charge, challenging the notion of submissive femininity.The line "A boy in the bush is worth two in the hand" cleverly plays with the saying "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." Here, the song exemplifies wordplay and irony while questioning societal expectations of courtship and monogamy. It brings attention to the notion of replacing something considered valuable with the desire for something more elusive, suggesting the allure of what is unattainable.In the verse, "And when we're in your scholarly room, who will swallow whom?" the song masterfully weaves themes of vulnerability and power play, with an unexpected twist. It challenges societal expectations and power dynamics within intimate encounters, blurring the lines between dominance and submission. The lyric also subtly explores the theme of intellectual playfulness, using the concept of a "scholarly room" to create a layer of intellectual stimulation within the physical act.Ultimately, "Handsome Devil" explores themes that transcend the surface-level interpretation of desire and power dynamics. The song's distinctive themes challenge conventional norms and present a multifaceted exploration of human connections. It delves into the complexities of desire, objectification, power dynamics, and intellectual stimulation, all while tackling societal expectations and traditional gender roles.By skillfully incorporating unexpected and imaginative themes into the lyrics, the song dismantles assumptions and provokes thought, inviting listeners to engage with the complexities of desire and power in their own lives. Through its daring nature and lyrical prowess, "Handsome Devil" becomes a symbol of rebellion against societal constraints and an anthem for embracing the multifaceted nature of human connections.