Meaning of "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" by The Smiths

"Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" explores the theme of unrequited love and the emotional toll it takes on an individual. The song highlights the deep longing and desire for someone to love and be loved in return. The opening lines reveal a dream where the narrator imagines that somebody loves them, offering a glimmer of hope amidst their loneliness. However, the phrase "Just another false alarm" suggests that this dream is not a reality but a mere illusion. It represents the repeated disappointment and heartbreak the protagonist has experienced in their pursuit of love.

The repeated question of "How long before the last one? How long before the right one?" conveys the narrator's impatience and weariness when it comes to waiting for love. They are desperate for the end of their search, longing for the moment when they will find the person who genuinely loves them. The phrase "This story is old, I know, but it goes on" emphasizes the universal nature of the struggle for love. It suggests that while the narrator's specific experience may be unique to them, the overall story remains a timeless and pervasive one. The search for love is an ongoing narrative that many can relate to, having faced disappointments and false hopes along the way.

Ultimately, "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" captures the complex emotions involved in longing for love. It delves into the depths of loneliness, the transient nature of false hope, and the eternal search for a genuine connection. The Smiths masterfully convey these feelings through their melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics, resonating with listeners who have experienced the pain and longing for love themselves.