Meaning of "Pretty Girls Make Graves" by The Smiths

The lyrics of "Pretty Girls Make Graves" convey a sense of disillusionment and resignation. The opening lines set the tone of the song, with the narrator rejecting the image others have of them and asserting their true identity. They emphasize that they are not the person the other person believes them to be. This could be interpreted as a commentary on societal expectations and the pressure to conform to a certain image or role.

The reference to "Sorrow's native son" adds an aspect of melancholy and a sense of being burdened by sorrow. The line suggests that the narrator is not capable of experiencing happiness or smiling, perhaps stemming from a deeper pain or sadness. It implies a deep-rooted feeling of being trapped in their emotional state.

The repeated line "pretty girls make graves" adds an interesting layer to the lyrics. It could be interpreted in a literal sense, referring to the idea that beautiful women often meet tragic ends. However, it can also be seen metaphorically, suggesting that the allure of attractive women can lead to destruction or death. This could symbolize the narrator's perception of how he is drawn towards beauty but ultimately suffers as a result.

The song further delves into the narrator's longing for a life of freedom and wildness. They reflect on their circumstances, blaming nature for playing a trick on them. They express a desire to give in to lust but acknowledge that the timing isn't right and that they are too delicate for the roughness of life. This could be seen as a lamentation of missed opportunities and a sense of being trapped by external forces.

The final lines reveal a deep disappointment in women and the loss of faith in womanhood. This may stem from a personal experience where the narrator's trust or ideals have been shattered. It adds to the overall theme of disillusionment and the idea that one's expectations of others can lead to disappointment and a loss of faith.

In conclusion, "Pretty Girls Make Graves" by The Smiths explores themes of identity, disillusionment, societal expectations, and the longing for freedom. It delves into the complexity of emotions and the impact of external factors on one's perception and experiences. The lyrics offer a glimpse into the narrator's inner turmoil and highlight the vulnerability and disappointment that can arise from failed expectations.