Song meaning of Cemetry Gates (Demo) by The Smiths

"Cemetry Gates" by The Smiths is a thought-provoking song that delves into themes of mortality, intellectualism, and the importance of originality in art. The song opens with the chorus, where the protagonist meets someone at the cemetery gates on a dreaded sunny day. The mention of Keats and Yeats being on the other person's side suggests that they find solace and inspiration in the works of these renowned poets. On the other hand, the protagonist claims Oscar Wilde as their own, indicating a personal connection to his writings.

In the first verse, the protagonist and their companion enter the cemetery and read the gravestones. This act prompts reflection on the lives of those who have passed away, with the realization that they had loves, hates, and passions just like the protagonist. The unfairness of life and the inevitability of death evoke a desire to cry. The companion then recites a line, "'Ere thrice the sun done salutation to the dawn," claiming it as their own. However, the protagonist reveals that they have heard these words before, highlighting the importance of originality and the danger of claiming someone else's words as your own.

The second verse continues the theme of originality, with the protagonist advising against plagiarizing or borrowing words from others. They warn of the presence of someone with a big nose, symbolizing a critic or an intellectual, who will expose and ridicule those who lack originality. The protagonist then mocks the companion's attempt at creating their own unique phrase, "'Long done do does did," suggesting that it is nonsensical and lacks substance. They accuse the companion of ripping off the words from a previous text, referring to it as the work of a "dizzy whore" from 1804.

The chorus reiterates the meeting at the cemetery gates on a dreaded sunny day, but this time, the protagonist suggests going where they are happy and wanted. However, they acknowledge that Keats and Yeats are on the other person's side, implying that they find comfort in the works of these poets. The protagonist concludes the chorus by asserting that Oscar Wilde, whom they claim as their own, is on their side, signifying their own unique perspective and intellectual influence.

Overall, "Cemetry Gates" explores the themes of mortality, the value of originality in art, and the intellectual influences that shape our perspectives. The song encourages listeners to reflect on their own creativity and the importance of finding inspiration while maintaining authenticity.