Shakespeare's Sister
The Smiths · The Smiths Complete [2011]
And the rocks below, say:
"Throw your skinny body down, son!"
But I am going to meet the one I love
So, please don't stand in my way
Because I'm going to meet the one I love
No, Mamma, let me go!
Young bones groan
And the rocks below, say:
"Throw your white body down!"
But I am going to meet the one I love
At last! At last! At last!
I am going to meet the one I love
La-de-da, la-de-da
No, Mamma, let me go!
I thought that if you had
An acoustic guitar
Then it meant that you were
A Protest Singer
Oh I can smile about it now
But at the time it was terrible
No, Mamma, let me go
Shakespeare's Sister
Released on The Smiths' 2011 complete discography, 'Shakespeare's Sister' stands as a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the complexities of family dynamics. Written by Morrissey and performed by Johnny Marr, the track exemplifies the band's signature blend of melancholic pop and poetic lyricism. The song's narrative follows a protagonist who is simultaneously attracted to and repelled by a woman who is his sister, a scenario that mirrors the intense emotional turbulence often found in Morrissey's work. With its driving guitar work and introspective vocals, the recording captures a specific moment in indie rock history, reflecting on themes of obsession and the blurred lines between familial bonds and romantic desire.