Sorrow Will Come In The End
Morrissey
The Inevitable Justice: Morrissey's Anthem of Retribution
Morrissey's song "Sorrow Will Come In The End" is a powerful and scathing critique of the legal system and those who manipulate it for their own gain. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who feels deeply wronged by a corrupt judicial process. The phrase "Legalized theft" sets the tone, suggesting that the legal system, which is supposed to uphold justice, has instead been used to rob the protagonist of something valuable. The repeated lines "Lawyer, liar" emphasize the deceit and betrayal felt by the protagonist, who sees the lawyers as complicit in this miscarriage of justice.
The song delves into the theme of inevitable retribution. Morrissey warns those who have wronged him that their victory is temporary and that sorrow will eventually come to them. This is encapsulated in the lines, "You pleaded and squealed / And you think you've won / But sorrow will come / To you in the end." The protagonist's words are filled with a sense of moral certainty and a belief in the eventual triumph of justice, even if it is delayed. The repeated assertion that his words are "pure" underscores his conviction that he is on the side of truth and righteousness.
Morrissey also touches on the broader societal issues of fame and corruption within the legal profession. The line "QC's obsessed with sleaze / Frantic for fame" criticizes those in positions of power who are more interested in personal gain than in upholding justice. The song's dark and vengeful tone is further amplified by the ominous warning, "A man who slits throats / Has time on his hands / And I'm gonna get you." This chilling imagery serves as a final reminder that those who have wronged the protagonist will not escape unscathed. The song is a raw and unflinching portrayal of anger, betrayal, and the belief in ultimate justice.