Meaning of "Is It Really So Strange?" by The Smiths

The lyrics of "Is It Really So Strange?" explore themes of love, resilience, and the search for identity. The protagonist describes their journey from North to South and back again, highlighting the challenges they face along the way. Despite being physically harmed and pushed down, they declare that their feelings for someone remain steadfast. This unwavering love serves as a symbol of their resilience and refusal to be swayed by external circumstances. The refrain, "Is it really so strange?" suggests that society may view their unwavering devotion as unconventional or irrational. However, they firmly assert that their feelings are real and valid. This can be seen as a commentary on the pressures and judgments imposed by society when it comes to matters of the heart.

The protagonist's confusion and acts of violence, such as killing a horse and a nun, symbolize their internal conflict and desperation. These actions express the inner turmoil resulting from their unwavering love and the challenges they face in understanding and reconciling their emotions. The line, "I can't help the way I feel, I can't help the way I feel, I can't help the way I feel," emphasizes the protagonist's struggle and hints at their inability to control or deny their emotions.

The mention of Newport Pagnell and the difficulty of the last mile represent the longing for home and a sense of belonging. This reflects the universal desire to find a place where one can truly belong and be understood. The protagonist acknowledges the physical and emotional challenges they face on their journey and realizes that they can never return home again. This realization serves as a metaphor for the irreversible changes and losses that accompany personal growth and transformation.

Overall, "Is It Really So Strange?" explores the complexities of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the universal struggle for identity and belonging.