Bigmouth Strikes Again

The Smiths' 'Bigmouth Strikes Again' is a song that captures the essence of regret and self-awareness after speaking without thinking. The lyrics, delivered with Morrissey's distinctive vocal style, convey a sense of irony and self-deprecation. The opening lines, where the speaker talks about wanting to cause harm to someone's physical appearance, are immediately followed by a retraction, stating it was all a joke. This juxtaposition suggests a theme of impulsiveness in speech and the consequences that follow.

The repeated reference to Joan of Arc is a metaphor for feeling misunderstood and persecuted. Joan of Arc, a historical figure who was burned at the stake, is invoked to illustrate the intensity of the scrutiny the speaker feels under. The anachronistic mention of her 'Walkman' and 'hearing aid' melting adds a layer of absurdity and emphasizes the timeless nature of such feelings of judgment and alienation. The song's chorus, with the phrase 'Bigmouth strikes again,' serves as a catchy yet biting acknowledgment of the speaker's tendency to speak out of turn, leading to a sense of ostracization.

Musically, The Smiths are known for their jangly guitar sound and Morrissey's literary and often morose lyrics. 'Bigmouth Strikes Again' is no exception, with Johnny Marr's guitar work providing an upbeat contrast to the lyrics' darker themes. The song's energy and catchy melody belie the seriousness of the subject matter, creating a complex emotional landscape that resonates with listeners who have ever felt the sting of their own words.