Meaning of What Do You See in Him? by The Smiths

The Smiths' song titled "What Do You See in Him?" is a hauntingly beautiful track that delves deep into the complexities of relationships and the struggle to understand why someone is attracted to another person. The overall theme of the song can be summarized as a lament from an outsider, desperately trying to comprehend the appeal that one person has over another.One standout lyric in the song is "Oh, the nights are too long, when the questions are long." This line touches upon the feeling of restlessness and unease that can often arise when confronted with deep questions about relationships. It explores the notion that the nights can feel never-ending when tormented by the puzzle of what makes one person attractive to another.Another impactful lyric is "Cheat the life out of me, as you walk hand in hand." This line explores the feeling of betrayal, as the singer witnesses the subject of their affection engaging intimately with someone else. It evokes a sense of powerlessness and despair, as the singer questions why their own qualities and love seem to be overlooked in favor of someone else.One unexpected theme that can be derived from this song is the notion of self-love and self-worth. As the singer asks, "What do you see in him?" they are simultaneously reflecting upon their own value. Often, when confronted with the mystery of why someone is attracted to another person, we start to question our own worth. This line encourages introspection and the realization that one's self-worth should not be determined by someone else's perceptions.Another imaginative theme that can be drawn from this song is the concept of perception and subjectivity. Each person has their own unique lens through which they view and interpret the world. In relationships, it is common for someone's attractions and preferences to differ from our own. This song forces us to confront the limitations of our own understanding and accept that what may seem incomprehensible to us can be fascinating and desirable to someone else.Lastly, the line "But she will plague you and I will be glad" introduces the theme of toxic relationships. It sheds light on the complexity of attraction and how people can sometimes find themselves drawn to individuals who ultimately bring them pain. It challenges the notion of rationality in matters of the heart, as sometimes, people are inexplicably drawn to those who might hurt them.Overall, "What Do You See in Him?" is a song that explores the intricacies and uncertainties of why people are attracted to one another. It delves into themes of self-worth, subjectivity, toxic relationships, and the limitations of understanding. Through its evocative lyrics, the song encapsulates the universal struggle to comprehend the seemingly unexplainable allure that one person can hold over another.