Work Is a Four Letter Word

The Smiths' song 'Work Is a Four Letter Word' delves into the tension between love and laziness, capturing the frustration of a partner who feels held back by their significant other's lack of ambition. The lyrics open with a declaration of love that is driving the narrator 'crazy,' juxtaposed with societal perceptions of the partner as 'born lazy.' This sets the stage for the central conflict: the partner's disdain for work, which they dismiss as a 'four-letter word,' a phrase often used to describe something unpleasant or vulgar.

The narrator's plea for change is heartfelt and urgent. They believe in the potential of their partner, urging them to 'change your life' and 'take all of this love that is waiting for you.' This love is portrayed as a transformative force, capable of awakening the partner from their state of inertia. The repeated encouragement to 'come and see' and be 'wide-awake' underscores the narrator's hope that love can be a catalyst for personal growth and fulfillment.

Despite the narrator's deep affection, there is a palpable sense of frustration and stagnation. They express a desire for a meaningful life together, rather than a 'house that's a showplace.' The repeated refrain about work being a 'four-letter word' highlights the partner's resistance to change and the resulting impact on their relationship. The song captures the universal struggle of balancing love with personal ambition and the challenges that arise when one partner feels stuck while the other yearns for progress.