Meaning of Menswear by The 1975
The 1975's song "Menswear" is a clever and thought-provoking piece that explores the complexities of relationships and identity. Through its lyrics, the song invites listeners to delve deeper into the meaning behind the words and discover unexpected themes that contribute to the overarching theme of the song.One standout lyric from "Menswear" is, "Well, I only brought 3, what you lookin' at me for? She's dressed in white and putting off crying." This lyric introduces the theme of societal expectations and the pressure to conform to them. The protagonist feels judged for not conforming to the traditional notion of a groom, as he only brought three groomsmen instead of the expected number. The bride's attire and her attempt to suppress her emotions also highlight the pressure to adhere to societal norms.Another significant line in the song is, "Free bar, that's the point. Spilling Amaretto 'cause of previous joints." Here, the theme of escapism and self-medication emerges. The protagonist seeks solace in the free bar, using alcohol to dull the pain caused by past experiences. This highlights the common tendency to resort to substances as a way to cope with emotional turmoil.The lyric, "I've never seen him knockin' about. He looks just like me, but 6 foot 3, so I reckon you could knock him out," raises the theme of identity and self-doubt. The protagonist compares himself to someone who physically resembles him but appears more confident and intimidating. This lyric explores the inner struggle of self-comparison and the desire to overcome insecurities by adopting a different persona.Moving on, the line, "I'm probably gonna yosh in your mouth. Because it's 5 past 3, I can hardly see and I'm on the verge of passing out," delves into the theme of vulnerability and the fear of losing control. The protagonist acknowledges his own state of intoxication and the potential consequences it may have on his behavior and relationships. This lyric showcases the fragility of the human condition and the fear of the unknown consequences of our actions.One final lyric that deserves scrutiny is, "I never really got on with your bird the first time. I met her out, dressed in nowt, telling everybody you were shagging about." This lyric introduces the theme of jealousy and mistrust. The protagonist admits to having negative feelings towards his partner's previous romantic interest, driven by stories of infidelity. This highlights the complex dynamics within relationships and the lingering effects of past actions on present emotions.In conclusion, "Menswear" by The 1975 masterfully weaves together various themes that illuminate the complexities of relationships and the human experience. Through its carefully crafted lyrics, the song explores topics such as societal expectations, escapism, identity, vulnerability, and jealousy. By delving into these unexpected themes, the song invites listeners to introspect and reflect on their own lives, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of the overarching theme.
