Speedway
Morrissey
The Weight of Rumors and Resilience in Morrissey's 'Speedway'
Morrissey's song 'Speedway' delves into the emotional turmoil caused by rumors and the resilience required to withstand them. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is being relentlessly attacked by falsehoods and accusations. The repeated imagery of slamming down a hammer and standing on fingers symbolizes the intense pressure and pain inflicted by these rumors. Despite this, the protagonist questions whether the accusers can see the damage they are causing, hinting at a lack of empathy or understanding from those spreading the lies.
The chorus, with its haunting repetition of 'I never said that they were completely unfounded,' suggests a complex relationship with the truth. Morrissey acknowledges that there may be some basis to the rumors, but they have been twisted and exaggerated to the point of causing significant harm. This admission adds a layer of vulnerability to the song, as the protagonist grapples with the partial truths that have been weaponized against them. The lines 'You won't sleep until the earth that wants me finally has me' and 'You won't rest until the hearse that becomes me finally takes me' convey a sense of relentless pursuit and a desire for the protagonist's downfall.
In the final verses, Morrissey explores themes of loyalty and betrayal. The protagonist reflects on their own actions, admitting that they could have retaliated by implicating others but chose not to. This decision to remain 'true' in their 'own strange way' highlights a moral complexity and a commitment to personal integrity, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. The song ultimately portrays a battle between maintaining one's sense of self and the destructive power of rumors, with the protagonist emerging as a figure of resilience and defiance.