Meaning of "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" by Morrissey

"We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" is a tongue-in-cheek commentary on envy and bitterness. Morrissey, known for his sarcastic and sardonic lyrics, explores the dark underbelly of human nature in this track. The song begins with the repeated lines "We hate it when our friends become successful," creating a sense of collective resentment towards those who have achieved success. The repetition emphasizes the intensity of this feeling, suggesting that it is a universal experience.

The lyrics then shift focus to specific traits that the narrator finds laughable: the person's clothes, face, and music videos. By mocking these superficial aspects, Morrissey reveals the pettiness of envy itself. The exaggerated laughter that punctuates the song serves as a tool to further highlight the absurdity of the narrator's feelings and actions.

Morrissey adds an interesting twist by introducing the element of regionalism. He sings, "And if they're Northern, that makes it even worse." Here, he taps into the idea of regional rivalry, suggesting that success for someone from the same region is even harder to accept. By pointing out this additional layer of envy, Morrissey explores the complexity and irrationality of human emotion.

The line "You see, it should have been me, it could have been me" reveals the narrator's deep-seated feelings of entitlement and jealousy. They believe that they deserve the success more than their friends, which fuels their resentment even further. The repetition of "la" sounds at the end of the song reinforces the idea of the narrator's internal dissatisfaction and frustration.

Overall, the song analyzes the destructive nature of envy and the lengths people will go to tear down those who have achieved success. Morrissey uses irony and humor to expose the folly of these emotions, urging listeners to confront and overcome their own feelings of bitterness and jealousy.