Meaning of "Accept Yourself" by The Smiths

The lyrics of "Accept Yourself" delve into the themes of self-acceptance, regret, and the passage of time. The song captures a feeling of discontent and disillusionment with one's life. The repeated question of how the narrator feels about their life highlights their constant introspection and search for meaning. The line "Anything is hard to find when you will not open your eyes" suggests that the narrator's inability to see and appreciate what is around them hinders their ability to find fulfillment.

The narrator expresses a longing to escape their current circumstances through dreams and fantasies. They yearn to be carried away and experience something greater than their dull and plain existence. However, the lyrics convey a sense of resignation and disappointment as dreams often fail to materialize. The line "And time is against me now" emphasizes the pressure the narrator feels as time passes and opportunities slip away.

The question of blame also arises in the song. The narrator wonders who or what is responsible for their unhappiness. The repetition of "There's no one left to blame" suggests a shift towards understanding that self-acceptance is crucial. The lyrics imply that blaming external factors will not lead to happiness. Instead, the focus should be on accepting oneself and embracing the flaws and imperfections that make up the individual.

The song also explores the theme of missed opportunities and regret. The line "Oh but plans can fall through as so often they do" reflects the narrator's acknowledgment that their carefully laid plans have often gone awry. This realization further deepens their sense of dissatisfaction with life. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for a different path and a wistful reflection on the dreams that never came true.

In the end, the lyrics emphasize the importance of self-acceptance. The repeated question of "When will you accept yourself?" serves as a reminder that finding happiness and contentment starts with embracing one's own strengths and weaknesses. By opening their eyes to the possibilities around them and accepting their life, the narrator suggests that fulfillment may finally be attainable.