Meaning of Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others by The Smiths

In "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others," The Smiths delve into a peculiar and fascinating exploration of size and perception. The song's overall theme seems to revolve around the idea that not everything is as it appears on the surface. By juxtaposing different sizes and mothers, the band invites listeners to question societal norms and challenge preconceived notions.One standout lyric that plays upon this theme is, "From the ice age to the dole age, there is but one concern I have just discovered." Here, the juxtaposition of the ice age and the dole age serves as a metaphor for contrasting eras, highlighting the perpetual nature of societal concerns. The underlying theme implied by this lyric is that despite the passing of time and the supposedly progressive nature of society, we are still preoccupied with superficial distinctions such as size.The repetition of the chorus, "Some girls are bigger than others, some girls' mothers are bigger than other girls' mothers," further reinforces the theme of size and perception. On the surface, this lyric might seem shallow or even offensive, but when examined from a broader perspective, it becomes a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the societal pressure to conform to certain physical standards. The lyric challenges the notion that a person's worth is determined solely by their physical appearance, suggesting that there are more significant aspects to consider.One unexpected theme that emerges from the lyrics is the idea that size is relative and subjective. The lyric, "As Anthony said to Cleopatra as he opened a crate of ale: 'Oh I say'," adds an element of historical allusion to the song. Here, the band implies that even famous historical figures were subject to the whims of superficial concerns. Size, in the context of this lyric, becomes a metaphor for the arbitrary nature of societal standards.By highlighting the different interpretations and attitudes toward size, The Smiths encourage listeners to question societal norms and embrace individuality. The song reminds us that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to identity and self-worth. It challenges us to celebrate our differences rather than conforming to narrow expectations.Another unexpected theme that arises from the lyrics is the idea of empowerment through self-acceptance. While the song seems to revolve around size, it also subtly suggests that focusing on physical appearance can detract from more meaningful aspects of life. The lyric, "Send me the pillow, the one that you dream on, and I'll send you mine," hints at the power of connection and vulnerability. By sharing parts of ourselves beyond our physical attributes, we create opportunities for genuine human connection and understanding.In conclusion, "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others" is a song that challenges societal norms and explores the arbitrary nature of size and perception. Through its lyrical ambiguity, the song invites listeners to question and challenge preconceived notions. The Smiths employ unexpected themes of relativity, historical allusion, empowerment, and connection to paint a multi-faceted picture of societal expectations. Ultimately, the song encourages us to embrace our unique qualities and celebrate the diversity that exists within ourselves and others.