That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore

The Smiths' song 'That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore' delves into the profound themes of empathy, loneliness, and the often cruel nature of human behavior. The lyrics, penned by Morrissey, are a poignant reflection on the insensitivity people can show towards those who are suffering. The opening lines, 'Park the car at the side of the road / You should know / Time's tide will smother you / And I will too,' set a somber tone, suggesting an inevitable engulfing by time and perhaps by the weight of one's own actions or emotions.

The song critiques the act of mocking or belittling those who are lonely and in despair. Morrissey sings, 'When you laugh about people / Who feel so very lonely / Their only desire is to die,' highlighting the insensitivity and cruelty that can be present in human interactions. The repeated refrain, 'Kick them when they fall down,' underscores this cruelty, questioning why people feel the need to further harm those who are already down. This repetition drives home the point that such behavior is not only unnecessary but deeply harmful.

As the song progresses, Morrissey reflects on the personal impact of these themes, singing, 'I've seen this happen in other people's lives / And now it's happening in mine.' This shift from observation to personal experience adds a layer of vulnerability and authenticity to the song. The realization that he might 'die with a smile on my face after all' suggests a complex interplay of resignation and acceptance. The song ultimately serves as a powerful commentary on the importance of empathy and the damaging effects of cruelty and insensitivity.