Meaning of "Uncertain Smile" by The The

The lyrics of "Uncertain Smile" by The The convey a sense of longing and yearning for someone who is no longer present. The opening lines, "Peeling the skin back from my eyes, I felt surprised / That the time on the clock was the time I usually retired," hint at the passage of time and the narrator's realization of how much they still think about this person. The place where they would usually clear their head of these thoughts is no longer effective, as they decide to indulge in daydreaming about this person instead.

The image of having someone "under my skin where the rain can't get in" suggests a deep emotional attachment and protection against external hardships. It signifies the vulnerability of having someone deeply embedded in one's psyche, yet also serves as a source of strength and resilience. The mention of sweat pouring out and the offer to swim and pull the other person out suggests a willingness to share burdens and support them, even in difficult times.

The following lines, describing a howling wind, rain, and street lamps casting orange colored shapes, create a vivid and melancholic atmosphere. This imagery reflects the narrator's emotional state and sets the tone for the theme of uncertainty. The broken soul staring from watering eyes represents feelings of sadness and vulnerability, while the uncertain smile reflects the struggle to hide true emotions and put on a brave face.

Overall, the lyrics of "Uncertain Smile" explore the inner world of the narrator, their attachment to someone, and the conflicting emotions that arise from this connection. It delves into the complexities of love, vulnerability, and the struggle to maintain a positive façade despite inner turmoil.