Meaning of What Difference Does it Make? - Single Edit by The Smiths

The Smiths' song "What Difference Does it Make? - Single Edit" is a timeless classic that delves into the complex emotions and experiences of relationships. The overall theme of the song revolves around the notions of love, vulnerability, deceit, and the consequences of our actions. Through its poignant lyrics and evocative melodies, the song uncovers deep layers of human connection and the impact our choices can have on ourselves and those around us.One standout lyric in the song is "All men have secrets and here is mine, so let it be known." This lyric speaks to the universal truth that everybody has secrets, reminding us that we are all flawed in some way. It highlights the theme of vulnerability, showing that even though we may hide our secrets, they eventually come to light. It suggests the importance of honesty within relationships, as hiding our true selves can lead to feelings of shame and disappointment.Another significant lyric is "The devil will find work for idle hands to do." This line alludes to the consequences of boredom and idleness. It explores the theme of the human tendency to engage in destructive behaviors when there is a lack of purpose or direction. It can also be interpreted as a critique of society's judgmental nature, suggesting that idle hands are often perceived as being involved in nefarious activities, even if it may not be true."But now you make me feel so ashamed, because I've only got two hands" is yet another compelling lyric in the song. It expresses the feeling of inadequacy and self-blame that can arise in relationships. It touches on the theme of self-worth and the pressure to measure up to someone else's expectations. The lyric suggests that despite feeling ashamed, there is still a deep affection for the person, showcasing the complexity of emotions within relationships.The chorus lyrics "So, what difference does it make? It makes none, but now you have gone" explore the theme of loss and its lack of impact in the grand scheme of things. It contemplates the transient nature of relationships and questions the significance of our actions and emotions when faced with separation or abandonment. It evokes a sense of resignation and acceptance of the inevitable passage of time.The line "And your prejudice won't keep you warm tonight" is a powerful lyric that engages with the theme of prejudice and its isolating effects. It suggests that harboring prejudiced beliefs only serves to distance oneself from warmth and compassion, highlighting the destructive nature of discrimination. The lyric encourages the listener to reflect on their own biases and the potential consequences of holding onto narrow-minded views.Furthermore, the lines "But now you know the truth about me, you won't see me anymore" delve into the theme of self-preservation and the fear of rejection. It touches on the idea that revealing one's true self, including their flaws and secrets, may lead to alienation and the loss of a connection. This lyric highlights the vulnerability that comes with opening up to someone, illustrating the complex dance between self-disclosure and self-protection within relationships.In conclusion, "What Difference Does it Make? - Single Edit" by The Smiths masterfully weaves together various themes surrounding relationships and human connections. Through its poetic lyrics, the song explores vulnerability, deceit, self-worth, prejudice, loss, and self-preservation. It serves as a reminder of the intricate and intricate emotions that accompany love and the impact our choices can have on ourselves and others. Ultimately, it provokes introspection and encourages us to confront our own truths and the consequences of keeping secrets or holding onto prejudiced beliefs.