Meaning of Stretch Out And Wait (Live in Oxford) by The Smiths

The Smiths' song "Stretch Out And Wait (Live in Oxford)" is a poetic exploration of various themes centered around the human experience. The song touches upon topics such as identity, the passage of time, the complexity of relationships, and the search for meaning in life. Through Morrissey's poignant and introspective lyrics, the listener is invited to delve into these themes and reflect upon their own existence.One standout lyric in the song is "Two icy-cold hands conducting the way, it's the Eskimo blood in my veins." This lyric captures the notion of exploring and embracing one's heritage and background. It suggests that our roots, regardless of their origins, play a significant role in shaping our identity. By referencing the "Eskimo blood," Morrissey brings attention to the uniqueness of one's heritage and how it can influence one's perspective and experiences in life.Another important lyric that contributes to the overall theme is "Nature must still find a way, so ignore all the codes of the day." Here, Morrissey speaks to the enduring resilience of nature and encourages listeners to break free from societal norms and expectations. By emphasizing the need to ignore the "codes of the day," he suggests that true fulfillment and self-discovery lie in embracing our natural instincts and impulses, rather than conforming to societal pressures.In the chorus, the lyrics "Stretch out and wait, let your puny body lie down" challenge the notion of physical limitations and the restrictions we often place on ourselves. The theme here is one of liberation and self-acceptance. Instead of conforming to societal definitions of success or beauty, Morrissey encourages listeners to embrace their bodies and find contentment in their own skin. It's a powerful message that urges individuals to love and respect themselves, regardless of society's expectations.Moving further into the song, Morrissey ponders existential questions with the lyric, "Will the world end in the nighttime? Or will the world end in the daytime? And is there any point ever having children?" These lyrics touch upon the fragility of existence and the uncertainty of the future. The theme of mortality emerges, forcing listeners to confront their own mortality and consider the purpose and significance of their actions. Morrissey's acknowledgment that he doesn't have the answers reflects the human experience of grappling with life's complex questions.The concluding lyrics, "There is no debate, how can you consciously contemplate when there's no debate?" convey a sense of urgency and implore listeners to live fully in the present moment. The theme here is one of seizing the opportunities that life presents, rather than getting caught up in overthinking and analyzing every decision. It serves as a reminder that life is fleeting and that dwelling on uncertainty or hesitating to act can ultimately lead to missed experiences and regrets.Overall, "Stretch Out And Wait (Live in Oxford)" by The Smiths is a song that invites listeners to reflect on various aspects of the human experience. It encourages exploration of one's heritage, breaking free from societal norms, accepting oneself, contemplating life's existential questions, and embracing the present moment. Through these insightful themes, Morrissey's lyrics resonate deeply, provoking thought and encouraging listeners to engage in a deeper introspection about their own lives.