Meaning of What She Said by The Smiths

The Smiths are known for their introspective and often melancholic lyrics, and their song "What She Said" is no exception. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around a sense of isolation, rejection, and a desire for something more. Each lyric builds upon this theme, creating an evocative narrative that delves deep into the complexities of human emotions.One standout lyric is "How come someone hasn't noticed that I'm dead and decided to bury me?" This line reflects a feeling of invisibility and a longing to be acknowledged. It raises the theme of feeling overlooked, as if one's existence is not recognized or valued. It also hints at a desire for a fresh start, for someone to take notice and provide the closure needed to move on.Another impactful line in the song is "All the rejection she's had, to pretend to be happy could only be idiocy." This lyric highlights the internal struggle faced by the protagonist, who must constantly put on a facade of happiness despite experiencing consistent rejection. The theme of duality emerges here, as the notion of pretending to be happy masks the pain of being constantly let down, suggesting the complexity of human emotions.A particularly intriguing lyric is "What she read, all heady books she'd sit and prophesize." This line introduces the idea of escapism through literature and introspection. It suggests that the protagonist finds solace in the world of books, perhaps using them as a means to make sense of her own experiences. This theme of seeking refuge in knowledge and introspection adds depth and complexity to the song, providing an alternative coping mechanism for the character.The following line, "It took a tattooed boy from Birkenhead to really, really open her eyes," introduces an unexpected twist in the story. Here, the protagonist's perspective is shifted by the influence of an unlikely character. This lyric explores the themes of personal growth and transformation, as well as the idea that sometimes it takes someone from a completely different background to challenge our preconceived notions and open our eyes to new possibilities."I smoke 'cause I'm hoping for an early death and I need to cling to something!" is a haunting lyric that exposes the desperation and longing for meaning within the protagonist. This line develops a theme of self-destructive tendencies born out of a sense of hopelessness, as if the only way to find purpose is through an acknowledgment of mortality. It delves into the darker aspects of human nature, highlighting how individuals can sometimes resort to harmful habits to cope with their emotions.In conclusion, "What She Said" by The Smiths explores themes of isolation, rejection, and the search for meaning. Through the examination of various standout lyrics, we see how these themes are developed and intertwined throughout the song. The desire for recognition, the pursuit of happiness amidst rejection, the solace found in literature, the transformative power of unexpected influences, and the longing for purpose through an acknowledgment of mortality - all come together to create a deeply introspective piece that resonates with listeners on multiple levels. The profound and imaginative exploration of these themes is what makes The Smiths' "What She Said" a standout song in their iconic discography.