Make-up is a lie

Morrissey's song "Make-up is a lie" delves into themes of authenticity and the facades people create to navigate the world. The lyrics take us on a journey through Paris, a city often associated with beauty and artifice, where the protagonist encounters a woman who declares that make-up is a lie. This statement serves as a metaphor for the superficial layers people apply to hide their true selves, suggesting a critique of societal pressures to conform to certain standards of beauty and behavior.

The repetition of the phrase "make-up is a lie" underscores the central message of the song, emphasizing the futility and deception inherent in masking one's true identity. The narrative unfolds over a span of ten years, with the protagonist returning to Paris and eventually standing before the woman's gravestone. This progression highlights the passage of time and the enduring impact of the woman's words, suggesting that the quest for authenticity is a lifelong journey.

Morrissey's choice of Paris as the backdrop for this exploration of truth and illusion is significant. Known for its romantic allure and cultural sophistication, Paris symbolizes both the allure of beauty and the potential for deception. The song's melancholic tone and reflective lyrics invite listeners to consider the ways in which they present themselves to the world and the importance of embracing one's true self, free from societal expectations and superficial embellishments.