Song meaning of Redondo Beach by Morrissey

"Redondo Beach" by Morrissey tells the tragic story of a lost love and a suicide. The lyrics depict the narrator's desperate search for their loved one, who has left after a quarrel. The chorus describes the melancholic atmosphere by the ocean, with women standing in shock and sadness, mirroring the narrator's own emotions. The second verse reveals that a girl has washed up on Redondo Beach, presumably the person the narrator was looking for, and it is revealed that she is the victim of suicide. This revelation intensifies the grief and longing expressed by the narrator.

In the third verse, the narrator speaks to the desk clerk who confirms the girl's identity, describing her as an angel with blonde hair. The narrator's emotions become more intense as they pick up their key and retreat to their room, succumbing to tears. The song ends with a sense of finality, as the hearse pulls away and it becomes clear that the loved one will never return.

The lyrics of "Redondo Beach" convey a profound sense of loss, sorrow, and heartbreak. The song explores themes of longing, regret, and the devastating effects of suicide. It highlights the lasting impact of losing someone who was deeply cherished and the deep void left behind. Ultimately, the song is a haunting reflection on the pain of losing a loved one and the inability to ever have them return.