Meaning of Is It Really so Strange? (Live in Boston) by The Smiths

The Smiths' iconic song "Is It Really so Strange?" is a deeply emotional and introspective piece that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the struggle to fit in. Written by the band's frontman, Morrissey, the lyrics take listeners on a journey through different geographical regions, reflecting the protagonist's quest for acceptance and the challenges encountered along the way. Let's delve into some of the standout lyrics and explore the unexpected themes they unveil.The opening line, "Is it really so strange?," sets the tone for the song's overarching question of societal norms and what is deemed acceptable. This theme is further amplified in the line, "I found a tiny house and I can't help the way I feel." Here, the idea of breaking away from societal expectations and finding one's own path emerges. It highlights the struggle of individuals who diverge from the conventional and are often met with resistance.The line, "Oh yes, you can kick me, and you can punch me, and you can break my face," introduces the theme of resilience and unwavering determination. It portrays a defiant spirit that refuses to be swayed or broken by external forces. This sentiment is reinforced with the proclamation, "But you won't change the way I feel, 'cause I love you." It suggests that love can be a powerful motivating factor that withstands even the harshest circumstances.The chorus lyric, "I say no, you say yes, and you will change your mind," delves into the complexities of human perception and the fluid nature of opinions. It reflects how easily people's viewpoints can shift and the underlying uncertainty that can permeate relationships. This theme is further reinforced with the line, "I got confused, I killed a horse." It represents the protagonist's internal struggle and confusion when faced with societal pressure.The unexpected theme of self-destruction emerges in the line, "I lost my bag in Newport Pagnell." It signifies the loss of personal identity and a desire to shed the baggage that weighs one down. It could be seen as a metaphorical act of leaving behind the old self and starting anew, even if it means losing belongings along the way.Towards the end of the song, we encounter the intriguing line, "Why is the last mile the hardest mile?" This lyric poignantly captures the difficulty of reaching the end of a journey or achieving a goal. It reflects on the toll it takes, both physically and emotionally, and questions the hardships faced during the final stretch. This theme alludes to the idea that the last steps towards self-discovery and personal growth can be the most challenging but ultimately the most rewarding.In summary, The Smiths' "Is It Really so Strange?" ventures into remarkable and imaginative themes that extend beyond the surface level of the song. It touches on the desire for acceptance, the resilience to external pressures, the fluctuating nature of relationships, the act of self-destruction for renewal, and the arduousness of completing a journey. These themes intertwine with the main theme of questioning societal norms and reveal a multitude of underlying emotions and struggles. This song serves as a testament to the power of introspection, self-expression, and the pursuit of individuality.