Wonderful Woman

The song 'Wonderful Woman' by The Smiths is a complex narrative that seems to revolve around a character who is both intriguing and morally ambiguous. The lyrics present a woman who is described in contradictory terms, suggesting a multifaceted personality that is difficult to comprehend. The opening lines depict her as someone who is languishing or in a state of boredom, expressing a desire for amusement by suggesting an odd and cruel activity: 'Let's go and trip a dwarf.' This line could be interpreted as a metaphor for seeking entertainment at the expense of others, highlighting a darker side of her character.

The repeated question 'Oh, what to be done with her?' suggests a sense of bewilderment or concern regarding how to handle or understand this woman. The description of her having 'Ice water for blood' with 'neither heart or spine' paints her as cold and possibly lacking empathy or courage. Yet, despite these seemingly negative attributes, the narrator is irresistibly drawn to her, as indicated by the lines 'But when she calls me, I do not walk, I run.' This suggests a powerful attraction or connection that compels the narrator to respond to her with urgency, regardless of her flaws.

The Smiths, known for their poetic and often melancholic lyrics, weave a tale that leaves listeners pondering the nature of the relationship between the narrator and the woman. The song could be exploring themes of attraction to the enigmatic or dangerous, the complexity of human relationships, and the idea that we can be drawn to people despite recognizing their potentially harmful traits. The allure of the 'Wonderful Woman' remains, even as the song questions the morality and consequences of being captivated by such a person.