Unattainable Love: A Timeless Theme
The notion of unrequited love has haunted literature for centuries, and no modern band captures this sentiment quite like The Smiths. Their song 'I Want the One I Can't Have,' featured on the 1985 album *Meat Is Murder*, remains an anthem for those who find themselves yearning for the unattainable, echoing the struggles of characters from Shakespeare's timeless plays.
Shakespearean Echoes in Modern Lyrics
The Smiths' frontman Morrissey has long been compared to literary figures, and in 'I Want the One I Can't Have,' we find a lyric that could easily belong to a tragic hero from a Shakespearean drama. The line,
succinctly captures that maddening desire, reminiscent of Romeo's infatuation with Juliet, a love that is as beautiful as it is doomed."I want the one I can't have, and it's driving me mad"
The Nature of Desire
Desire, especially when it is out of reach, creates a unique tension. In Shakespeare's works, characters frequently find themselves in a similar predicament — take Orsino in *Twelfth Night*, who pines for Olivia, a love that remains just beyond his grasp. Morrissey's exploration of this theme adds a contemporary twist, highlighting not only the pain of longing but also the absurdity that often accompanies it.
Pain and Absurdity in Love
The absurdity of desire is further expressed in the song as Morrissey reflects on the futility of his longing. The line
suggests a willingness to be more than just a bystander in this emotional turmoil, akin to Hamlet's struggles with his own desires and duties. The contrast between wanting and having is stark, emphasizing how love can often feel like a cruel joke."And if you want to, I'll be your man"
Music Meets the Bard
The Smiths’ jangly guitars and Morrisey’s evocative vocals create a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and urgent. It's a perfect backdrop for the emotional weight of the lyrics, much like the rich language found in Shakespeare's plays. The modernity of the music does not overshadow the timelessness of the themes; instead, it breathes new life into them.
Interplay of Desperation and Hope
As the song progresses, the interplay between desperation and hope becomes palpable. Morrissey's candid admission of his desires speaks to that universal experience of longing for someone who is unattainable. This is a motif not unfamiliar to Shakespeare fans; think of Desdemona's plight or the heartache in *A Midsummer Night's Dream* — love that is as enchanting as it is elusive.
A Lasting Impact
'I Want the One I Can't Have' continues to resonate with listeners today, just as Shakespeare's works have transcended time. The song's exploration of unattainable love taps into a core human experience, one that is both painful and strangely beautiful. Morrissey’s lyrical genius elevates the song to a level of literary artistry that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences.
Did you know? *Meat Is Murder*, the album that features this track, was produced by Stephen Street, who helped shape the band's signature sound.
Conclusion: The Timelessness of Yearning
The connections between The Smiths' deep yearning in 'I Want the One I Can't Have' and the themes of unattainable love explored in Shakespeare's works are profound. Both capture the essence of longing in a way that speaks to the heart of the human experience, reminding us that some loves are indeed meant to remain just out of reach.