Still Ill
Still Ill

The Smiths - Still Ill Lyrics

Step into a whirl of melancholy and disillusionment carried on Morrissey's brooding vocals. This lyrical lament ponders life's injustices and the fraying of once-vivid dreams. England’s supposed bounty falls short, leaving the singer at a crossroads between… Read more

Alternative
Feb 20, 1984
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Still Ill Music Video

Still Ill Lyrics

I decree today that life is simply taking and not giving
England is mine, it owes me a living
But ask me why, and I'll spit in your eye
Oh, ask me why, and I'll spit in your eye
But we cannot cling to the old dreams anymore
No, we cannot cling to those dreams

Does the body rule the mind
Or does the mind rule the body?
I dunno

Under the iron bridge we kissed
And although I ended up with sore lips
It just wasn't like the old days anymore
No, it wasn't like those days, am I still ill?
Oh
Am I still ill?
Oh

Does the body rule the mind
Or does the mind rule the body?
I dunno

Ask me why, and I'll die
Oh, ask me why, and I'll die
And if you must, go to work, tomorrow
Well, if I were you I wouldn't bother
For there are brighter sides to life
And I should know, because I've seen them, but not very often

Under the iron bridge we kissed
And although I ended up with sore lips
It just wasn't like the old days anymore
No, it wasn't like those days, am I still ill?
Oh
Am I still ill?
Oh

Writer(s): Steven Morrissey, Johnny Marr
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Royalty Network, Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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What is the Meaning of Still Ill?

Step into a whirl of melancholy and disillusionment carried on Morrissey's brooding vocals. This lyrical lament ponders life's injustices and the fraying of once-vivid dreams. England’s supposed bounty falls short, leaving the singer at a crossroads between expectations and reality. The repeated question—does the body rule the mind or vice versa—adds a haunting, existential echo. Sweet, bittersweet memories stitched with moments under iron bridges starkly contrast with the grim present. As the singer questions whether they’re still ill, it’s clear the illness transcends the physical. It’s about a soul caught in life's doldrums, yearning for brighter sides rarely glimpsed. #ExistentialAngst #MelancholyMusings #LostDreams #MorrisseyMoods

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who wrote the song 'Still Ill' by The Smiths?

    'Still Ill' was written by Morrissey, the lead singer of The Smiths, and Johnny Marr, the band's guitarist.

  2. On which albums can 'Still Ill' be found?

    'Still Ill' is featured on The Smiths' debut album, 'The Smiths,' released in February 1984. Another version of the song appears on the compilation album 'Hatful of Hollow,' released in November 1984.

  3. What is notable about Johnny Marr's contribution to 'Still Ill'?

    Johnny Marr's composition and his skillful handling of the difficult mood transitions in 'Still Ill' have been frequently praised. His intricate guitar work is a standout feature of the song.

  4. How has Morrissey's lyrical style been described in relation to 'Still Ill'?

    Morrissey's lyrics in 'Still Ill' have been noted for their use of vivid imagery and emotional depth. His ability to convey complex feelings such as nostalgia, disillusionment, and introspection has been highlighted by critics.

  5. What unique instrument is featured in the Hatful of Hollow version of 'Still Ill'?

    The version of 'Still Ill' on the Hatful of Hollow compilation features a harmonica, which is an unusual choice for a Smiths song but feels strangely appropriate in this instance.

  6. Has 'Still Ill' influenced any other works or media?

    'Still Ill' has inspired various works, including a 2007 documentary titled 'The Smiths: Still Ill.' Additionally, the title of the 2017 biographical drama about Morrissey, 'England Is Mine,' comes from a line in this song.

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