Meaning of What’s the World (Live in Irvine) by The Smiths

The Smiths, the iconic British alternative rock band led by the enigmatic Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr, captivated audiences with their poignant and introspective lyrics. One standout song in their repertoire is 'What's the World' (Live in Irvine), which delves deep into the complexities of human experience. The overall theme of the song appears to revolve around the search for identity, the struggle against societal pressures, and the relentless pursuit of self-expression.One lyric that stands out in the song is "Loose glasses and suit." This seemingly mundane image holds a significant meaning. It speaks to the idea of conformity and societal expectations, where individuals feel compelled to conform and wear a 'suit' that doesn't truly fit them. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the pressure to conform to a predetermined mold, stifling one's true self in the process.Another powerful lyric that captures the essence of the song is "I'm going under, you can feel them pulling me down, to the rust inside." Here, we witness a struggle against external forces that seek to erode one's true identity. The use of the word 'rust' metaphorically represents the decay and deterioration of individuality under the weight of societal expectations. This lyric explores the theme of the constant battle between preserving one's unique identity and succumbing to the pressures of conformity.An unexpected but imaginative theme develops from the line "That's not enough! I wonder what's inside, fish fillet knife can cut right through my eye..." This cryptic and somewhat disturbing lyric reveals an underlying yearning for self-exploration, going beyond the superficial and diving deep into the core of one's being. It suggests a desire to break through the barriers of societal expectations and discover what lies beneath the surface. This theme explores the concept of self-discovery and the willingness to endure pain and vulnerability in pursuit of personal revelation.The lyric "This is the way Franken-star is born, bits and pieces others have worn, all held together by a management glue" offers an intriguing perspective on identity formation. It suggests that individuals often construct their identities from fragments of influence picked up from others throughout their lives. The mention of a "Franken-star" conjures images of a monster-like creation, emphasizing the idea that identity is often a patchwork of borrowed experiences and cultural elements. This theme delves into the idea that our identities are influenced by external factors and societal constructs, questioning the authenticity of our individuality.As the song progresses, the theme of identity intertwines with the overarching theme of battling against conformity, revealing another unexpected theme. The lyric "They'll knock me under where I stand, sad on his back in a corned beef pan" metaphorically portrays the struggle against the pressures and expectations that weigh us down. It highlights the vulnerability and isolation experienced when one resists conformity, yet finds themselves cast aside or alienated. This theme explores the consequences and emotional toll of challenging societal norms.In conclusion, 'What's the World' (Live in Irvine) by The Smiths delves deep into the intricate layers of human experience. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song explores themes of identity formation, the struggle against conformity, self-discovery, and the emotional toll of resisting societal pressures. Each line presents an unexpected and imaginative perspective, captivating the listener and inviting introspection. The Smiths, through their signature melancholic sound and poetic lyrics, continue to provide a captivating exploration of the human psyche, resonating with audiences across generations.