Glamorous Glue
Morrissey
Disillusionment and Social Critique in Morrissey's 'Glamorous Glue'
Morrissey's song 'Glamorous Glue' delves into themes of disillusionment, societal decay, and the search for authenticity in a world filled with lies. The repeated reference to 'the jar' symbolizes a container of truth or reality that, once opened, reveals the harsh truths of life. The lyrics suggest that upon closer inspection, one finds that 'everyone lies' and 'everything dies,' painting a bleak picture of human nature and societal values.
The song also touches on political disillusionment, particularly with the line 'We won't vote Conservative because we never have,' indicating a rejection of traditional political structures and a sense of hopelessness in finding genuine leadership. Morrissey questions the existence of respectable men and beloved women, highlighting a loss of faith in personal relationships and societal figures. This sense of loss is further emphasized by the repeated lament 'London is dead,' suggesting a cultural and moral decline in the city once considered a beacon of civilization.
In the latter part of the song, Morrissey reflects on his past dreams and vows, which he now finds unattainable. The mention of looking to Los Angeles for language use implies a shift in cultural influence from London to the United States, further underscoring the theme of decay and change. The final lines, 'Now I'm too much in love' and 'I'll go empty hand from the land,' suggest a resignation to this disillusionment, with love being the only remaining solace in a world that has otherwise lost its value.