☝️ Key Points
- The song is about Morrissey's observations and experiences with certain people in his life.
- It reflects their influence on his behavior and attitudes.
- It questions their superficiality and willingness to compromise their principles for money.
- The song encourages reflection on the power of opinions and the influence of people in our lives.
Interpretation
"Certain People I Know" is a song by
Morrissey that is about certain people he knows and how their behavior influences him. He takes the cues and behavior of these people and then passes them on to others. The song is about the power of opinions and the influence of people in our lives.
Morrissey sings that he takes and passes on the advice of "certain people". This could mean that he is inspired by their behavior. He seems impressed by their energy and appearance, as he sings, "And when I wave it, he notices... (Were you there? You would have died!)". This shows that these people have a strong impact on him.
The lyrics of the song also point out the shallowness of some people. Morrissey sings that he trusts the looks of "certain people" who see danger and laugh at him. These people seem to not recognize any serious threat and do not take it seriously. Morrissey questions their attitude and finds it absurd how they dress and behave like "George the 23rd".
Morrissey also expresses his dislike for certain people who would sacrifice their principles and values for money. He finds it terrible how they can betray their own beliefs and do anything for money. This shows his critical attitude towards people who give up their integrity for material things.
Overall, the song "Certain People I Know" is about Morrissey's observations and experiences with certain people in his life. It reflects their influence on his behavior and attitudes, and questions their shallowness and willingness to give up their principles for money. The song invites reflection on the power of opinions and the influence of people in our lives.