I Started Something I Couldn't Finish

The Smiths' song 'I Started Something I Couldn't Finish' delves into the complexities of regret and the consequences of impulsive actions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a desolate setting, emphasizing the isolation and emptiness that the protagonist feels. The opening lines, 'The lanes were silent / There was nothing, no one, nothing around for miles,' set the stage for a narrative of introspection and remorse. The protagonist reflects on a 'friendly venture' that was abruptly ended with a 'hard-faced / Three-word gesture,' suggesting a moment of harshness or cruelty that led to unforeseen consequences.

The recurring theme of forcing someone into an uncomfortable or unsuitable situation is central to the song. The lines 'I forced you to a zone / And you were clearly / Never meant to go' highlight the protagonist's awareness of their mistake. This acknowledgment is further underscored by the repetition of 'Typical me,' indicating a pattern of behavior that the protagonist recognizes but seems unable to change. The phrase 'Hair brushed and parted' adds a touch of mundane normalcy, contrasting sharply with the emotional turmoil described.

The song also touches on the idea of tradition and societal expectations, as seen in the lines 'I grabbed you by the guilded beams / Uh, that's what tradition means.' This suggests that the protagonist's actions were influenced by external pressures or norms, leading to a sense of entrapment. The mention of 'eighteen months' hard labour' as a fair consequence implies a deep sense of guilt and a desire for atonement. Ultimately, 'I Started Something I Couldn't Finish' is a poignant exploration of regret, the impact of impulsive decisions, and the struggle to reconcile one's actions with their consequences.