Meaning of Money Changes Everything by The Smiths

Money Changes Everything: The Deep Dive into The Smiths' Insightful LyricsThe Smiths, the influential British rock band of the 1980s, have never shied away from exploring profound and thought-provoking themes in their music. One song that captures their unique style and lyrical prowess is "Money Changes Everything." Released in 1987 as a B-side to their single "Shoplifters of the World Unite," this track delves into the multifaceted and often contradictory nature of money and its impact on individuals and society. Through its standout and important lyrics, the song unveils hidden themes that go beyond the surface level, shedding light on deeper philosophical and societal truths.One standout lyric in "Money Changes Everything" is, "The pleasure of finding things out." At first glance, this line appears simple and straightforward, expressing the joy of discovering new things. However, it also speaks to the allure of money and the transformative power it holds. The accumulation of wealth can fuel an insatiable desire for knowledge and exploration. As individuals amass fortunes, they often find themselves continuously seeking novelty and excitement, expanding their horizons and indulging in new experiences. This theme dives into the underlying notion that money not only changes one's material circumstances but also has the potential to shape one's inner desires and motivations.Another notable lyric in the song is, "The dream sets off with a scream." This line encapsulates the idea that the pursuit of wealth and success can be tumultuous and emotionally taxing. Dreams of a prosperous future often come with sacrifices and challenges that can be overwhelming and frustrating. The line hints at the dissonance between the initial excitement of pursuing dreams and the harsh realities and sacrifices that come along the way. It highlights money as a catalyst for both hope and despair, reminding us that its influence can be a double-edged sword.In an unexpected twist, the lyric "The value of nothing is rising like a flooding tide" presents a compelling and imaginative theme. It explores the concept of hyperinflation of values and beliefs in a society driven by money. As material wealth accumulates, intangible qualities such as compassion, empathy, and moral principles often become devalued. The pursuit of money can overshadow and erode the significance of these qualities, leading to a society where greed and self-interest reign supreme. This lyrical theme prompts reflection on the shifting societal values and the potential dangers of an obsession with monetary gain.Furthermore, the line "Difference of opinion may encourage tears" delves into the emotional toll that money can have on relationships. It highlights how diverging views on wealth, spending, and financial priorities can lead to conflict and even tear apart close bonds. Money possesses the power to magnify differences in ideology, values, and priorities, often generating disagreements and emotional distress within interpersonal relationships. This theme underscores the complex and sometimes destructive impact of money on our connections with others.Lastly, the lyric "Mine, not yours, but what we can't afford is mine, not yours" explores the illusion of ownership and its connection to wealth. Beyond mere possession, money creates a sense of entitlement and exclusivity. The line probes at the notion that wealth determines what belongs to whom, widening the divide between the haves and the have-nots. It highlights the arbitrary nature of ownership and how money can be a false indicator of true value and worth.In conclusion, "Money Changes Everything" by The Smiths takes a critical and nuanced look at the profound impact of money on individuals and society. Through its standout and thought-provoking lyrics, the song uncovers unexpected and imaginative themes. These themes delve into the transformative power of money, the emotional toll of its pursuit, the inflation of values, the strain on relationships, and the illusion of ownership. Ultimately, the song serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of money and its far-reaching consequences.