Meaning of Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others (Live) by The Smiths

The Smiths' song "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others" is a cryptic exploration of societal prejudices and the beauty standards that permeate our culture. On the surface, the song appears to center around the physical differences between women, as implied by the repeated refrain "Some girls are bigger than others." However, a deeper examination reveals a nuanced commentary on the complexities of identity and the way we perceive and categorize others.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "From the ice age to the dole age, there is just one concern." This line suggests a timeless preoccupation with appearance, highlighting society's enduring fixation on physical attributes. It speaks to the notion that throughout history, regardless of the circumstances, people have always fixated on the sizes and shapes of bodies as a measure of worth or desirability. By framing this concern within the context of different historical eras, the lyrics imply that society's obsession with physical appearance is not always rational or fair.Another poignant lyric that adds to the song's underlying themes is "Some girls' mothers are bigger than other girls' mothers." At first glance, this line might seem arbitrary or nonsensical, but it cleverly reflects the idea that societal standards of beauty are often inherited or passed down from one generation to another. The song suggests that these standards are not only external societal pressures but are also perpetuated within individual families. By bringing mothers into the equation, the lyrics hint at the complex relationship between body image and the influence of familial norms. It implies that the standards we hold ourselves and others to are often deeply ingrained within us, shaped by the people who raised us.The line "On the shop floor, there's a calendar, as obvious as snow, as if we didn't know!" introduces an interesting take on the song's overarching theme. It draws attention to the ubiquitous presence of idealized images of women in our daily lives, also referred to as "pin-up" or "eye candy" calendars. This simple lyric not only carries a critique of the way women are objectified in the workplace but also suggests that society's obsession with the physical appearance of women is glaringly obvious. Despite this awareness, these beauty standards persist and continue to influence our perceptions and treatment of others.An unexpected yet imaginative theme that emerges from "Some girls are bigger than others" focuses on the notion of self-acceptance and embracing diversity. While the song seems on the surface to be about society's judgment of women's bodies, it can also be seen as a call to challenge societal norms and find beauty in all its forms. By highlighting the variety of body sizes and the idea that beauty comes in different packages, the song implicitly encourages listeners to resist the pressure to conform to one narrow definition of attractiveness. It reminds us that every person is unique and deserving of love and acceptance, regardless of their size or shape.In conclusion, "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others" by The Smiths delves into the complex issues surrounding body image, societal expectations, and self-acceptance. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song challenges us to question the arbitrary standards of beauty imposed on women and urges us to celebrate diversity and individuality. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder to reevaluate our own biases and find beauty in the uniqueness of all individuals.