Song meaning of Handsome Devil (John Peel Session 18/05/83) by The Smiths

"Handsome Devil" by The Smiths is a provocative and tongue-in-cheek song that explores themes of desire, power dynamics, and sexual innuendo. The lyrics are filled with clever wordplay and double entendres, creating a playful yet subversive narrative.

The song opens with the line, "All the streets are crammed with things eager to be held," which sets the tone for the song's exploration of lust and temptation. The narrator acknowledges their understanding of the purpose of hands and expresses a desire to indulge in their desires. This is evident in the lines, "Let me get my hands on your mammary glands" and "Let me get your head on the conjugal bed." Here, the lyrics playfully allude to sexual acts, using metaphorical language to convey the narrator's intentions.

The chorus repeats the desire to touch and possess the object of desire, emphasizing the narrator's confidence and assertiveness. The line, "I crack the whip and you skip, but you deserve it" suggests a power dynamic, with the narrator asserting control over their partner. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the complexities of relationships and the dynamics of dominance and submission.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of education and intellectual pursuits. The line, "I think I can help you get through your exams," suggests a potential exchange of favors or manipulation in the pursuit of academic success. The song further explores this theme in the lines, "And when we're in your scholarly room, who will swallow whom?" This line cleverly plays with the idea of knowledge consumption and the power dynamics within educational settings.

Overall, "Handsome Devil" by The Smiths is a song that uses clever wordplay and innuendo to explore themes of desire, power, and education. It showcases the band's signature blend of wit and social commentary, making it a standout track in their discography.