
A Personal Connection to the Song
I remember stumbling upon the song “This Night Has Opened My Eyes” by The Smiths at a friend’s house. We were going through their record collection, and as soon as the opening chords started playing, I was captivated. The haunting melody and Morrissey’s poignant lyrics drew me in, and I couldn’t help but listen intently to every word.
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Exploring the Lyrics
The lyrics of “This Night Has Opened My Eyes” tell a story, inspired by the play “A Taste of Honey” by Shelagh Delaney. The song opens with the imagery of a river the color of lead and a baby’s head being immersed. It sets a somber tone, hinting at a difficult and harsh reality. The line “wrap her up in the News Of The World, dump her on a doorstep, girl” evokes abandonment and highlights the harshness of life.
As the song progresses, the chorus emphasizes the fragile nature of life and the realization that we only have one chance to make the most of it. The lyrics suggest that the dream may be gone, but the baby, representing hope and potential, is real. The protagonist is both critical and introspective, acknowledging their actions as both good and bad. The repeated phrase “And I’m not happy, and I’m not sad” adds depth to the complex emotions intertwined within the song.
The second verse introduces the image of a shoeless child on a swing, reminding the protagonist of their own troubles. While this child may have taken away their worries, they also left behind pain, highlighting the complexities of relationships and the bittersweet nature of human connection.
Legacy and Reception
“This Night Has Opened My Eyes” was featured on two of The Smiths’ compilation albums, “Hatful of Hollow” and “Louder Than Bombs.” The song showcases the band’s signature melancholic sound and introspective lyrics, which resonated with their devoted fanbase.
The Smiths, fronted by Morrissey and Johnny Marr, were known for their unique blend of indie rock and post-punk sound. Their music spoke to a generation of listeners who felt alienated or misunderstood, and “This Night Has Opened My Eyes” is no exception. Its thought-provoking lyrics and haunting melody continue to captivate listeners to this day.
Conclusion
“This Night Has Opened My Eyes” by The Smiths is a song that delves into the complexities of life, love, and human emotions. Inspired by the play “A Taste of Honey,” the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the harsh realities the protagonist faces. The song’s introspective nature and haunting melody make it a standout in The Smiths’ discography, resonating with fans who appreciate their unique and thought-provoking approach to music.
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