Bad Gays Morrissey
May 19, 2020
Dive into the cultural impact of Morrissey, whose music transformed the pain of marginalized youths into anthems of identity. Explore the paradox of his nostalgic lyrics against his controversial political stances, igniting discussions on masculinity and alienation. The podcast unpacks the complexities of his identity, reflecting on how teenage admiration can clash with troubling statements. It also addresses the broader implications of far-right rhetoric within contemporary society and the lasting effects of his art on British nationalism.
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How Morrissey Shaped A Queer Teen
- Huw Lemmey describes discovering The Smiths as a lonely gay teen and finding identity and hope in Morrissey's lyrics and aesthetics.
- He links Morrissey's world to his own upbringing in northwest England and formative teenage experiences.
Aesthetic: Northern Grit Meets Quiet Camp
- Morrissey crafted a visual and lyrical aesthetic that merged northern working-class life with queer-coded icons and 50s/60s film stars.
- This blend subverted rock machismo and created a new queer register in British pop culture.
Ambivalence Became Representation
- Morrissey's public refusal to label his sexuality created a conflicted, ambivalent queer stance that resonated with isolated teens.
- His lyrics provided emotional representation without mainstream labels, offering a valuable cultural subject position.
