I Have Forgiven Jesus
Morrissey
The Struggle of Faith and Desire in Morrissey's 'I Have Forgiven Jesus'
Morrissey's song 'I Have Forgiven Jesus' delves into the complex relationship between faith, desire, and self-acceptance. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who was once a 'good kid,' adhering to societal and religious expectations. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that the protagonist feels abandoned by Jesus, grappling with the intense desires and emotions that have been instilled in him. This sense of abandonment is poignantly expressed in the lines, 'But Jesus hurt me / When he deserted me,' highlighting a deep sense of betrayal and confusion.
The song's chorus, 'I have forgiven you Jesus / For all the desire / He placed in me,' underscores the internal conflict of reconciling one's faith with the human experience of desire and love. Morrissey questions why he has been given such strong emotions in a world that seems to offer no outlet for them. This is further emphasized in the lines, 'Why did you give me so much desire? / When there is nowhere I can go / To offload this desire?' The repetition of these questions reflects a profound sense of frustration and helplessness.
Morrissey also touches on themes of self-deprecation and existential angst. The line, 'Why did you stick me in / Self deprecating bones and skin?' suggests a struggle with self-worth and identity. The repeated questioning of 'Do you hate me?' indicates a deep-seated insecurity and a yearning for understanding and acceptance. The song captures the essence of feeling out of place in a world that doesn't seem to accommodate one's inner turmoil, making it a poignant exploration of the human condition and the complexities of faith and desire.