In a tapestry of emotional wandering and existential questioning, The Smiths explore the complexities of identity and personal turmoil through vivid storytelling. The lyrics convey a journey marked by confusion, violence, and loss, both physical and emotional. The protagonist's restless travels between the North and South symbolize a deeper internal struggle, heightened by surreal incidents like killing a horse and a nun. The recurring line, "I can't help the way that I feel," underscores an unchangeable emotional core despite external chaos. The plaintive question, "Is it really so strange?" challenges societal norms and expectations, suggesting that personal idiosyncrasies should be accepted rather than judged. Ultimately, the song reflects an irrevocable transformation, encapsulated in the realization that returning to one's former self or "home" is impossible. Through this narrative, The Smiths delve into themes of self-acceptance, identity, and the futility of resisting one's true feelings.
