"How Soon Is Now?" is one of The Smiths' most iconic and enduring songs, written by Morrissey and Johnny Marr. Originally released as a B-side in 1984, it later appeared on the compilation album Hatful of Hollow and on international editions of Meat Is Murder. Despite its initial status as a B-side, the song gained significant popularity and is now widely regarded as a classic of 1980s alternative rock123.
Lyrical Themes and Meaning
- The song is a powerful expression of alienation, longing, and social anxiety. Morrissey's lyrics capture the pain of shyness and the deep desire for love and connection, resonating with anyone who has ever felt out of place or isolated.
- Key lines like "I am human and I need to be loved, just like everybody else does" and "I am the son and the heir of a shyness that is criminally vulgar" articulate the struggle of introversion and the universal need for acceptance.
- The narrative describes going to a club in hopes of finding love, only to end up leaving alone and feeling defeated—a scenario that reflects Morrissey's own experiences and has become an anthem for the lonely and misunderstood.
Musical Style and Innovation
- The track is renowned for Johnny Marr's distinctive tremolo guitar effect, which creates a hypnotic, atmospheric sound that sets it apart from much of The Smiths' other work.
- The song was conceived during a marathon writing session and was originally titled "Swamp." Marr intended the intro to be as instantly recognizable as iconic rock riffs, and the song's structure is built around a single chord, enhancing its hypnotic quality.
- Its length (nearly seven minutes in its original form) and unique production make it one of the band’s most experimental and recognizable tracks.
Cultural Impact
- "How Soon Is Now?" has become a touchstone for those experiencing social anxiety, introversion, and the longing for connection. Its emotional honesty and sonic innovation have earned it a lasting place in popular culture.
- The song has been covered by various artists and featured in films and TV shows, notably as the theme for the series Charmed.
- Guitarist Johnny Marr has called it "the most identifiable thing I’ve done," and it is frequently cited as a favorite by both fans and critics.
Notable Lyrics (Excerpt)
I am the son and the heir
Of a shyness that is criminally vulgar
I am the son and heir
Of nothing in particularYou shut your mouth,
How can you say
I go about things the wrong way?
I am human and I need to be loved,
Just like everybody else does7.
Songwriting Credits
- Lyrics: Morrissey
- Music: Johnny Marr
Chart Performance
- Initially a B-side, the song reached No. 24 on the UK Singles Chart when released as a single in 1985, and No. 16 upon re-release in 1992.
In summary:
"How Soon Is Now?" is a haunting, emotionally charged anthem about shyness, loneliness, and the yearning for love, set to one of the most distinctive soundscapes in alternative music. Its legacy endures as both a club favorite and a deeply personal statement for countless listeners452.
