Meaning of "Cemetry Gates" by The Smiths
The lyrics of "Cemetry Gates" by The Smiths delve into the themes of mortality, artistic integrity, and the pursuit of happiness. The song begins on a paradoxical note with a "dreaded sunny day," setting the tone for the conflicting emotions and ideas to come. The meeting at the cemetery gates can be seen as a metaphorical encounter with death itself, prompting the characters to reflect on the lives of those buried there.
The mentioning of poets Keats, Yeats, and Wilde represents the intellectual and artistic pursuits of the characters. Keats and Yeats are said to be on the side of one person, while Wilde is on the other. This illustrates a divide in literary preferences and personal philosophies. It can also be interpreted as a representation of differing perspectives on life, death, and the creative process.
The lyrics further explore the concept of originality in art. The line, "If you must write prose and poems, the words you use should be your own," emphasizes the importance of writing with authenticity and avoiding plagiarism. The reference to a "big nose" who knows and trips you up when you imitate or borrow from others highlights the potential consequences of lacking originality and the ridicule that may follow.
The song also touches upon the fleeting nature of existence and the sadness that comes with it. The lines, "They were born and then they lived and then they died, seems so unfair and I want to cry," capture the melancholic contemplation of the fragility and transience of human life. The juxtaposition of the sunny day with the cemetery setting creates a sense of irony, highlighting the contrast between the beauty of the world and the inevitability of death.
Ultimately, the characters decide to leave the cemetery behind and seek happiness elsewhere. The repetition of "So let's go where we're happy" reflects their desire for a different, more fulfilling experience. However, despite this shared goal, they still remain divided by their differing literary preferences, with Keats and Yeats on one side and Wilde on the other. This contrast suggests that even in the pursuit of happiness, individual differences and preferences can create barriers and prevent true unity.