Meaning of Is It Really So Strange? (Live in London, 1986) by The Smiths

The Smiths' song "Is It Really So Strange?" is a complex and introspective piece that delves into the intricacies of human emotions and experiences. The overall theme of the song seems to be an exploration of the unyielding power of love and how it can transcend physical pain and societal expectations.One standout lyric that carries significant weight is, "I can't help the way that I feel." This line encapsulates the idea that love is uncontrollable and can often defy logic. It suggests that the narrator's emotions are beyond their control, rendering them susceptible to both physical and emotional pain. This lyric serves to develop the theme of the unpredictability of love, emphasizing that it's not always rational or easily understood.Another important lyric is, "But you won't change the way I feel." This line hints at resilience and unwavering commitment, highlighting the strength of the narrator's emotions. It speaks to the idea that love can endure even in the face of adversity. This lyric helps develop the theme of love as an unchanging force, highlighting its ability to withstand external influences.In the line, "I left the South, I travelled North, I got confused, I killed a horse," there is an unexpected theme of disorientation and the destructive power of love. The narrator's travels and confusion suggest a search for something that brings both excitement and chaos into their life. The mention of killing a horse could symbolize the destruction of stability in favor of pursuing their emotional desires. This lyric presents the idea that love can lead to chaotic and unpredictable actions, blurring the line between what's acceptable and what's not.The lyric, "I can't help the way I feel, I can't help the way I feel," echoes throughout the song, reinforcing the idea that the narrator's emotions are beyond their control. It reflects the intensity and unrelenting nature of their love, emphasizing the power it holds over them. This lyric helps develop the overarching theme of love's overwhelming force, as it repeats like a mantra, emphasizing the all-consuming nature of the character's emotions.The line, "I lost my bag in Newport Pagnell," introduces the unexpected theme of loss and longing. Though seemingly insignificant, this lyric can be interpreted as a metaphor for losing oneself in the pursuit of love. It speaks to the sacrifices made and the personal baggage left behind when one becomes consumed by their emotions. This lyric adds depth to the theme of love's transformative power, showing that it can lead to both liberation and loss.The final verse's lyric, "Why is the last mile the hardest mile? My throat was dry, with the sun in my eyes," encapsulates the theme of longing and the difficulties of moving forward. It acknowledges the challenges of letting go and the pain that accompanies the end of a journey or relationship. The image of the sun in the narrator's eyes symbolizes the blinding nature of love and the obstacles that arise when trying to overcome it. This lyric adds a bittersweet aspect to the theme of love's endurance, exploring the complexities of moving on.Overall, "Is It Really So Strange?" is a thought-provoking song that explores the multifaceted nature of love. Through its standout lyrics, it delves into themes of uncontrollable emotions, resilience, chaos, transformation, loss, and longing. The song ultimately suggests that love can be both liberating and challenging, serving as a reminder of the power it holds over our lives.