Meaning of Rubber Ring / What She Said / Rubber Ring (Live in Boston) by The Smiths

In the realm of alternative rock, few bands have left a lasting impact quite like The Smiths. Known for their introspective and often melancholic lyricism, the band consistently managed to strike a chord with listeners, and their song "Rubber Ring / What She Said / Rubber Ring (Live in Boston)" is no exception. This multifaceted track is a testament to the band's ability to explore profound themes through the power of music.At its core, the overall theme of the song appears to revolve around the intricacies of human existence, especially the struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The first verse, "How come someone hasn't noticed that I'm dead and decided to bury me? God knows, I'm ready," immediately sets the tone of existential reflection. It delves into the concept of being overlooked or disregarded by others, hinting at the longing for connection and validation. This theme is further reinforced by the chorus, "What she said was not for the job or lover that she never had."One standout lyric that contributes to the development of these existential themes is found in the second verse: "What she read, all heady books, she'd sit and prophesise. It took a tattooed boy from Birkenhead to really, really open her eyes." This lyric delves into the notion of acquiring knowledge or seeking wisdom through literature and higher thinking. It implies that the protagonist finds solace in these intellectual pursuits, but it takes a seemingly unlikely source, a tattooed boy, to truly enlighten her.Building upon this, another thought-provoking lyric is found in the second chorus of the song: "What she said, 'I smoke because I'm hoping for an early death and I need to cling to something.'" This rather bleak statement sheds light on the existential desperation felt by the protagonist. It suggests that she engages in self-destructive behavior as a means of coping with the challenges of life. By clinging to something as literal as smoking, she keeps herself connected to an anchor in an otherwise uncertain world.But let's dive deeper into the imaginative and unexpected themes that can be extracted from this haunting masterpiece. One such theme that can be derived from the song is the exploration of transformative experiences and unexpected encounters. The lyric, "It took a tattooed boy from Birkenhead to really, really open her eyes," suggests that life-changing moments often arise from the most unassuming sources. It urges us to remain open-minded and receptive to the unexpected, as it may lead to profound personal growth.Additionally, the interplay between light and darkness emerges as another intriguing theme within the song. The dichotomy between the protagonist's desire for an "early death" and her need to "cling to something" suggests that even in the depths of despair, there is a yearning for connection and purpose. This juxtaposition exemplifies the complexities of human emotions and the delicate balance between darkness and hope.Furthermore, the song subtly explores the theme of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. The lyric, "What she said was sad, but then all the rejection she's had. To pretend to be happy could only be idiocy," delves into the idea of societal norms dictating one's outward display of happiness. It questions the authenticity of pretending to be content simply to conform to societal standards. This theme resonates with anyone who has felt the weight of societal expectations pressuring them to mask their true emotions.In conclusion, "Rubber Ring / What She Said / Rubber Ring (Live in Boston)" serves as a musical conduit for introspection, exploring a plethora of thought-provoking themes. From existential ponderings to transformative encounters and the pressures of conformity, The Smiths manage to craft a song that is simultaneously melancholic and resonant. It encourages listeners to contemplate their own lives, the meaning they seek, and the unexpected sources from which they may find solace. As we navigate the complexities of existence, this song reminds us that there is beauty and significance to be found in every experience, no matter how seemingly insignificant. It is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure, adapt, and ultimately find light in even the darkest corners.