☝️ Key Points
- The lyrics of the song 'Broken Hearts Are for Assholes' question heartache and self-pity, claiming that only 'assholes' experience such states
- The seemingly disjointed and absurd narratives of the song could be interpreted as metaphors for self-destructive behavior in relationships
- It is emphasized multiple times that the protagonist is an 'asshole', which supports the message that people who show self-pity are getting in their own way
- Zappa makes it clear that women can also be 'assholes', suggesting that he believes all people are capable of self-destructive behavior
- The song is a satirical and mocking take on the theme of heartache, encouraging listeners to take responsibility for their own behavior
Interpretation
The song 'Broken Hearts Are for Assholes' by
Frank Zappa is known for its sarcastic and provocative lyrics. The song examines the theme of heartbreak and questions it. It starts with the statement 'Broken hearts are for assholes', which attacks the cliché that suffering and heartbreak are noble or romantic states. Instead, Zappa claims that only 'assholes' find themselves in such states.
The narrative of the song is chaotic and absurd, with many seemingly unrelated events and characters, which is typical of Zappa's music. The singer tells of different encounters and situations that fail in a comical and grotesque way. These absurd stories could be interpreted as metaphors for senseless or self-destructive behaviors in relationships.
The chorus, which emphasizes over and over again that the protagonist is an 'asshole', underscores the message that people who wallow in heartache or see themselves as victims ultimately only get in their own way.
In the last verse, Zappa addresses women and tells them that they can also be 'assholes', indicating that he believes that anyone, regardless of gender, is capable of displaying self-destructive behavior.
In summary, it can be said that 'Broken Hearts Are for Assholes' is a satirical and mocking examination of the theme of heartbreak and encourages listeners not to get lost in self-pity but to take responsibility for their own behavior.