Song meaning of Bigmouth Strikes Again (Demo) by The Smiths

"Bigmouth Strikes Again" is a song by the iconic British indie rock band The Smiths. This demo version of the track showcases the band's signature blend of catchy melodies and biting lyrics. The song delves into themes of bitterness, frustration, and the consequences of one's own words.

The opening verse sets the tone with the lines, "Sweetness, sweetness, I was only joking when I said, I'd like to smash every tooth in your head." Here, the narrator admits to making a violent statement, but claims it was meant in jest. However, the repetition of "sweetness" suggests a sarcastic tone, implying that the narrator's words are anything but sweet.

The chorus, "Bigmouth strikes again, and I've got no right to take my place with the human race," reveals a sense of self-awareness and guilt. The term "bigmouth" refers to someone who speaks without thinking, often causing harm or offense. The narrator acknowledges their own tendency to be outspoken and recognizes that they don't deserve to be part of society if they continue to hurt others with their words.

The song also references historical figure Joan of Arc, known for her bravery and eventual martyrdom. The bridge states, "And now I know how Joan of Arc felt, as the flames rose to her Roman nose, and her Walkman started to melt." This juxtaposition of historical and modern elements highlights the narrator's feelings of persecution and isolation. The mention of the Walkman, a popular portable music device at the time, adds a touch of irony and shows the song's relevance to contemporary society.

In the second bridge, the lyrics change slightly to, "And