Meaning of Reel Around the Fountain by The Smiths

The Smiths are known for their melancholic and thought-provoking lyrics, and "Reel Around the Fountain" is no exception. This mesmerizing track delves into the complexities of relationships and the effect they have on individuals involved. Through its vivid imagery and poetic storytelling, the song explores the themes of transformation, desire, and the passage of time.One of the standout lyrics in "Reel Around the Fountain" is, "Of how you took a child and you made him old." This lyric hints at the transformative power that relationships can have on a person. It speaks to the idea that when we invest ourselves emotionally in someone, we can undergo drastic changes in our identity and outlook on life. It suggests that love and intimacy can accelerate our journey through the inevitable process of aging, shaping us into entirely different individuals.Another crucial line in the song is, "Fifteen minutes with you, well, I wouldn't say no." Here, the theme of desire emerges. It portrays an intense longing for a connection with someone, emphasizing the significance of even the shortest encounters. This lyric speaks to the intensity of human connections, suggesting that a fleeting moment with the right person can be just as impactful and meaningful as a lifetime spent with someone else.In a slightly more ambiguous lyric, Morrissey sings, "Oh, people said that you were virtually dead, and they were so wrong." This lyric explores the subjectivity of perception and the power of personal experience. It suggests that people often misunderstand or underestimate the depth and potential of others. The line challenges societal judgments and highlights the importance of recognizing the full range of human emotions and experiences.As the song progresses, Morrissey further delves into the concept of desire with the line, "You can pin and mount me like a butterfly, but 'Take me to the haven of your bed' was something that you never said." This lyric explores the intersection of physical and emotional intimacy. It suggests that one can give themselves physically to someone while still longing for a deeper emotional connection. It brings to light the longing for vulnerability and emotional intimacy within the context of physical encounters.The lyrics "Meet me at the fountain, shove me on the patio, I'll take it slowly" symbolize the complexities of the passage of time and the desire to savor each moment. The fountain represents the rush of time, always moving forward relentlessly. However, "I'll take it slowly" implies a desire to slow down and appreciate each instant. This juxtaposition represents the tension between the urgency of time passing and the longing to slow down and savor the present.In essence, "Reel Around the Fountain" delves into the transformative nature of relationships and the complexities of desire. It explores the idea that connections with others can change us deeply, potentially accelerating our personal growth and shaping our identities. The song's themes of transformation, desire, and the passage of time paint a complex and thought-provoking picture of human relationships, reminding us of the profound impact they can have on our lives.