Meaning of the Song “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” by The Smiths

What does “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” by The Smiths Mean?

“I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” by The Smiths is a song that captures the essence of frustration, self-reflection, and the consequences of impulsive actions. Released in 1987 as part of their album Strangeways, Here We Come, this track is steeped in ambiguity, making it open to various interpretations. Morrissey, the band’s lead vocalist and lyricist, is known for his witty, sometimes cryptic lyrics, and “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” is no exception. The song deals with the themes of regret, unfulfilled potential, and the consequences of starting something without being able to follow through.

At its core, the song explores the feeling of biting off more than one can chew—whether it’s in personal relationships, career choices, or life decisions. It reflects the discomfort and regret that arise when the initial excitement of starting something new fades, leaving behind a sense of unfinished business. With its catchy guitar riff and Morrissey’s distinct vocal style, “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” resonates with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the consequences of their own actions.

The Core Theme of “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish”: Regret and Unfinished Business

One of the central themes of the song is regret—specifically, the kind that comes from realizing that you have started something you are no longer able or willing to complete. Morrissey’s lyrics suggest a deep frustration with himself and with the situation he finds himself in. The line, “Typical me, typical me, I started something, and now I’m not too sure,” highlights the uncertainty and self-doubt that come with taking on something bigger than anticipated. It’s a feeling of regret for having acted too quickly, driven by impulse, only to later question that decision.

In a broader sense, the song speaks to the human experience of ambition and failure. We often start projects or relationships with high hopes, only to find ourselves overwhelmed by the demands of seeing them through. Morrissey’s lyrics encapsulate this all-too-familiar feeling, where the excitement of beginning something new is soon replaced by doubt and regret when reality sets in.

However, it’s not just about personal failure. The song also touches on the societal pressure to succeed and to finish what we start, even if we’re no longer invested. In this way, “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” can be seen as a commentary on the expectations placed on individuals to constantly be achieving or completing something, regardless of their personal happiness or fulfillment.

Exploring the Lyrics: Ambiguity and Witty Wordplay

Like many of Morrissey’s songs, the lyrics of “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” are open to interpretation, making it a rich text for analysis. The title itself is a straightforward admission of failure, but Morrissey’s delivery is layered with irony and self-awareness. Lines such as, “The flesh in the window / The heart in my mouth” evoke a visceral sense of discomfort and confusion, suggesting that the protagonist is caught between desire and uncertainty.

The phrase “I grabbed you by the guilded beams, that’s what tradition means” is particularly interesting, as it could be interpreted as a critique of societal norms and expectations. Morrissey often writes about the tension between individual desires and societal pressures, and this line seems to reflect that struggle. The “gilded beams” could symbolize the superficial trappings of success or tradition, and the protagonist’s impulsive actions might represent a rebellion against these expectations—only to be followed by regret.

Throughout the song, there’s a sense of tension between wanting to break free from societal constraints and the fear of the consequences that come with doing so. The lyrics oscillate between boldness and vulnerability, reflecting the protagonist’s internal conflict over having started something they no longer want to finish. This push and pull between desire and doubt is a recurring theme in The Smiths’ music, and it’s particularly prominent in this track.

The Musical Composition: Catchy Yet Melancholic

Musically, “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” blends upbeat, jangly guitar riffs with a melancholic undertone, typical of The Smiths’ sound. Johnny Marr’s guitar work is central to the song, with his bright, energetic playing contrasting with Morrissey’s more somber, reflective lyrics. This juxtaposition creates a unique tension in the song, where the music suggests a certain optimism or drive, while the lyrics hint at frustration and uncertainty.

The rhythm section provides a steady, almost driving beat, which complements the theme of starting something with energy and enthusiasm—only for that momentum to falter as the song progresses. The backing vocals and harmonies add depth to the track, further enhancing its emotional complexity.

Morrissey’s vocal delivery is both deadpan and emotionally charged, reflecting the internal conflict of the lyrics. His characteristic mix of detachment and intensity draws listeners in, making the song feel personal and relatable, even if its meaning is deliberately ambiguous.

Context and Legacy: A Reflection on The Smiths’ Career

“I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” was released on Strangeways, Here We Come, the final studio album from The Smiths before their breakup. Given the timing of its release, many fans and critics have speculated that the song could also reflect Morrissey’s feelings about the band’s disintegration. The title alone—”I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish”—seems to resonate with the idea of The Smiths as a project that was started with great potential but ultimately came to an abrupt end.

The song’s themes of regret and unfinished business take on a new layer of meaning when considered in the context of the band’s impending breakup. It serves as a poignant reflection on the challenges of maintaining creative partnerships and the emotional toll of walking away from something that no longer feels sustainable.

Despite being one of the lesser-discussed tracks from Strangeways, Here We Come, “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” remains an important part of The Smiths’ legacy. It encapsulates many of the themes that made the band so beloved: introspection, irony, wit, and a unique blend of melancholy and humor.

Conclusion: The Unfinished Business of Life

“I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” by The Smiths is a song that captures the complexities of ambition, regret, and self-reflection. Through its witty lyrics and dynamic musical composition, the song explores what it feels like to take on more than you can handle, and the emotional fallout that comes from it. Whether interpreted as a personal reflection, a commentary on societal pressures, or a metaphor for the band’s own career, the song resonates with listeners who have experienced the frustration of unfinished business.

Ultimately, “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” serves as a reminder that not every project or relationship can be completed, and sometimes, walking away is the best choice. It’s a song that speaks to the human experience of failure, uncertainty, and the bittersweet realization that not everything in life can be neatly resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” by The Smiths?

The song explores themes of regret, uncertainty, and unfinished business. It reflects the frustration of starting something with enthusiasm but later realizing it’s too difficult to complete.

Is the song about personal failure?

Yes, the song touches on personal failure, specifically the feeling of being overwhelmed after initiating something ambitious. It conveys a sense of doubt and regret when faced with the reality of not being able to follow through.

What does the line “I grabbed you by the gilded beams” mean?

This line can be interpreted as a critique of societal expectations or the protagonist’s impulsive actions. It highlights the tension between personal desires and traditional norms.

Is “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” about relationships?

While the song can be interpreted in many ways, one plausible reading is that it addresses the challenges in relationships, where someone may start a connection but later question their commitment. The lyrics reflect a broader theme of uncertainty and self-doubt.

What role does regret play in the song?

Regret is a central theme in the song, as the protagonist reflects on the consequences of impulsive decisions. The lyrics suggest frustration over being unable to complete something they eagerly started.

How does the music complement the song’s themes?

The upbeat guitar riff and driving rhythm contrast with the somber lyrics, creating tension between the initial excitement of starting something new and the emotional fallout of unfinished business. This contrast highlights the conflicting emotions present in the song.

What does the song say about societal pressures to succeed?

The song touches on societal expectations to finish what we start, even when we are no longer invested in the outcome. It questions the pressure to achieve and how failure can be a natural part of life.

Why is “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” relatable?

The song is relatable because many people have experienced the frustration of starting something with excitement but later feeling unable to complete it. The themes of doubt, regret, and personal reflection resonate with listeners.

Is there irony in the lyrics of the song?

Yes, Morrissey’s lyrics are often filled with irony, and in this song, the protagonist’s regret is delivered with a sense of self-awareness and wit. The title itself suggests an acknowledgment of failure with a dash of humor.

How does “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” reflect The Smiths’ overall style?

The song reflects The Smiths’ signature style of blending witty, introspective lyrics with energetic music. It balances emotional complexity with irony, showcasing the band’s ability to address serious themes with a touch of humor and relatability.