Half a Person

The Smiths' song 'Half a Person' is a poignant narrative of self-discovery and the longing for connection. The lyrics, delivered with Morrissey's distinctive vocal style, convey a sense of melancholy and introspection. The opening lines, 'Call me morbid, call me pale,' set a tone of self-deprecation that is characteristic of Morrissey's lyrical approach. The repetition of having spent 'six years on your trail' suggests a prolonged search for something or someone, a quest that has consumed a significant portion of the narrator's life.

The chorus, 'Sixteen, clumsy and shy,' reveals the narrator's self-perception during a formative period. The mention of London and the Y.W.C.A. (Young Women's Christian Association) indicates a journey, both literal and metaphorical, away from home in search of identity and a place to belong. The question 'Can I stay?' is not just about lodging but also about finding a stable place in the world. The reference to a 'back-scrubber' is likely metaphorical, hinting at the desire for intimacy and care, which the narrator feels he lacks.

The song also touches on themes of change and the passage of time. The line 'In the days when you were hopelessly poor, I just liked you more' suggests that the narrator's relationship with someone has altered as circumstances have changed. This could be interpreted as a commentary on how people's perceptions and affections can shift with social and economic status. Ultimately, 'Half a Person' is a reflection on the struggles of youth, the search for self, and the human need for acceptance and love.