In the pantheon of 80s alternative music, few bands have left as indelible a mark as The Smiths. Known for their poetic lyrics and melancholic melodies, The Smiths were more than just a band; they were a cultural phenomenon. One of their most intriguing songs, “William, It Was Really Nothing,” offers a lyrical puzzle that has sparked debate and fascination among fans and critics alike. This blog post aims to unravel the layers of meaning behind this enigmatic song, exploring its lyrics, historical context, and possible interpretations.
The Cultural Impact of The Smiths
Before we plunge into the specifics of “William, It Was Really Nothing,” it’s essential to understand the cultural landscape that The Smiths influenced and were influenced by. Formed in Manchester in the early 1980s, The Smiths quickly became the voice of a disaffected youth. Their songs often tackled themes of alienation, love, and the struggles of daily life. With Morrissey’s poignant lyrics and Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar riffs, The Smiths set themselves apart from the mainstream pop and rock of their time.
The Meaning of “William, It Was Really Nothing” by The Smiths
The song “William, It Was Really Nothing” by The Smiths offers a poignant glimpse into the fleeting nature of romantic relationships and societal expectations. With Morrissey’s melancholic yet cutting lyrics, paired with Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar riffs, the song weaves a narrative that challenges the traditional notions of love and marriage. “William, it was really nothing” is a phrase that encapsulates the disillusionment and anti-climactic reality often found in relationships that society deems significant. The song prompts listeners to question the authenticity of their personal connections and societal pressures. It’s a brief but powerful anthem that resonates with anyone who’s felt the sting of unfulfilled expectations.
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
The rain falls hard on a humdrum town
This town has dragged you down
Oh, the rain falls hard on a humdrum town
This town has dragged you down, no, no
And everybody’s got to live their life
And God knows I’ve got to live mine
God knows I’ve got to live mine
[Chorus]
William, William, it was really nothing
William, William, it was really nothing
It was your life
[Verse 2]
How can you stay with a fat girl who’ll say, oh
“Would you like to marry me?
And if you like you can buy the ring”?
She doesn’t care about anything
“Would you like to marry me?
And if you like you can buy the ring”
I don’t dream about anyone except myself
[Chorus]
Woah, William, William, it was really nothing
William, William, oh-oh-oh-oh-woah
Woah-oh, oh-oh
Setting the Scene: A Humdrum Town
The song kicks off with the line, “The rain falls hard on a humdrum town.” This opening immediately paints a picture of dreariness and monotony, a setting that is all too familiar for many of The Smiths’ fans. Manchester, often criticized for its gloomy weather and industrial landscape, serves as a backdrop for much of the band’s work. The rain, a recurring motif in British literature and music, symbolizes melancholy and stagnation.
The Weight of Everyday Life
“This town has dragged you down.” Here, the lyrics move from setting the scene to exploring the emotional toll of living in such a place. The town isn’t just physically dreary; it has a psychological weight that drags its inhabitants down. This line encapsulates the feeling of being trapped in a life that offers little excitement or prospects, a theme that resonates deeply with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of confinement.
Individual vs. Collective Experience
“And everybody’s got to live their life / And God knows I’ve got to live mine.” In these lines, Morrissey touches on the universal struggle of balancing individual desires with societal expectations. Everyone has their path, yet the pressure to conform can be overwhelming. The repetition of “God knows I’ve got to live mine” emphasizes a sense of urgency and personal responsibility, suggesting that breaking free from societal constraints is not just a desire but a necessity.
Chorus Analysis: The Enigmatic William
“William, William, it was really nothing.” The chorus is both simple and complex, raising more questions than it answers. Who is William, and what exactly was “nothing”? Some interpretations suggest that William is a stand-in for anyone feeling trapped by societal norms. The phrase “it was really nothing” could imply that the pressures and expectations placed on William (and by extension, everyone) are insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
The Provocative Verse
“How can you stay with a fat girl who’ll say, oh / ‘Would you like to marry me? / And if you like you can buy the ring’?” This verse has been the subject of much controversy and debate. On the surface, it appears to mock a woman’s proposal, but a deeper reading suggests a critique of societal norms around marriage and relationships. The woman’s indifference to the proposal (“She doesn’t care about anything”) highlights the transactional nature of such commitments, devoid of genuine emotion or connection.
Self-Centered Dreams
“I don’t dream about anyone except myself.” This line shifts the focus back to the individual, emphasizing self-preservation and personal fulfillment over societal expectations. In a world that often demands conformity, dreaming only of oneself can be seen as an act of rebellion and self-care. It’s a reminder that personal dreams and aspirations are valid, even if they don’t align with societal norms.
Return to the Chorus
The repetition of the chorus reinforces its importance and centrality to the song’s message. “William, it was really nothing” becomes a mantra, a way of downplaying societal pressures and emphasizing the insignificance of external expectations. The use of “William” as a recurring figure adds a personal touch, making the message more relatable and poignant.
The Historical Context
Understanding the historical context of “William, It Was Really Nothing” adds another layer of meaning to the song. Released in 1984, the song came at a time when the UK was grappling with economic challenges and social upheaval. The conservative government led by Margaret Thatcher was implementing policies that many viewed as harsh and unyielding. In this climate, The Smiths’ music offered both an escape and a critique, resonating deeply with those who felt marginalized or disillusioned.
Interpretations and Theories
The song has spawned numerous interpretations and theories, each adding to its mystique. Some believe that “William” refers to Billy Mackenzie of The Associates, a contemporary and friend of Morrissey’s. Others see it as a broader commentary on the pressures faced by young men in society. Regardless of the specific interpretation, the song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and thoughts.
The Role of Music and Arrangement
While much of the focus is on Morrissey’s lyrics, Johnny Marr’s musical arrangement plays a crucial role in conveying the song’s message. The upbeat tempo and jangly guitar riffs create a contrast with the melancholic lyrics, adding a layer of complexity to the listening experience. This juxtaposition is a hallmark of The Smiths’ sound, making their music both emotionally rich and sonically engaging.
The Legacy of “William, It Was Really Nothing”
Even decades after its release, “William, It Was Really Nothing” remains a beloved and influential song. Its themes of individuality, societal pressure, and personal fulfillment continue to resonate with new generations of listeners. The song’s legacy is a testament to The Smiths’ ability to capture the human experience in a way that is both timeless and deeply personal.
Conclusion
“William, It Was Really Nothing” is more than just a song; it’s a poetic exploration of the human condition. Through its evocative lyrics and compelling music, it encourages listeners to reflect on their lives, their dreams, and the societal pressures they face. For fans of The Smiths and newcomers alike, the song offers a rich tapestry of meaning and emotion, making it a timeless classic in the world of music.