Meaning of "Unhappy Birthday" by The Smiths

"Unhappy Birthday" by The Smiths showcases a deeply pessimistic and resentful perspective towards someone. The repeated phrase "I've come to wish you an unhappy birthday" sets the tone of begrudgingly acknowledging this person's special day while simultaneously expressing ill-will. The lyrics make it clear that the person in question is viewed as evil and deceitful. They are described as someone the narrator will not mourn if they were to die, although a small trace of sadness may still exist.

The song also delves into the feelings of heartbreak and loss, challenging the common notion that one should be content after a breakup. The lines "Loved and lost and some may say, when usually it's nothing, surely you're happy it should be this way?" suggest a disagreement with the idea that the end of a relationship should bring relief or happiness. Instead, there is an undertone that the narrator feels betrayed or wronged, creating a sense of resentment towards the presumed happiness of the other person.

The lyrics take a dark turn with the mention of killing a dog and self-harm. These lines convey the narrator's extreme emotional torment and despair. The phrase "May the lines sag, the lines sag heavy and deep tonight" could symbolize the weight of emotional pain and its impact on their well-being. The mention of self-inflicted harm, implied by "I said no and then I shot myself," further emphasizes the intensity of the narrator's emotional state.

Overall, "Unhappy Birthday" portrays a complex mix of bitterness, longing, and intense emotional turmoil. The lyrics question societal expectations of happiness after a breakup and highlight the negative consequences of feeling deceived or betrayed. The themes of lost love and profound sadness underline the despair present in the song.