The Morrissey song that sparked threat accusations about Margaret Thatcher
Politics and music often assume different roles within culture, yet a segment of those within the realm of music finds a necessity for the two to collide. Always one to court controversy, Morrissey ignited a firestorm with ‘Margaret on the Guillotine’, prompting speculation about the song’s underlying motives.
In an era when Morrissey’s political views hadn’t yet turned controversial, akin to The The’s Matt Johnson, he strongly disdained Conservative party leader Margaret Thatcher. In his characteristic style, Morrissey voiced his sentiments by releasing ‘Margaret On The Guillotine’ in 1988.
The song, a vivid and controversial critique of the British Prime Minister and her policies, expresses strong condemnation and disdain for Thatcher’s governance, envisioning a scene where she faces execution by guillotine. Naturally, the song stirred controversy upon its release, drawing attention for its bold and unapologetic portrayal of the Prime Minister’s downfall.
Following the song’s release, the singer asserted that he was interrogated by the Special Branch, who allegedly feared his music indicated a genuine threat to Thatcher’s life. This is understandable considering the lyrics, which essentially fantasise about the leader’s demise: “People like you / Make me feel so old inside / Please die.”
Unrelenting, when Thatcher died in 2013, Morrissey said: “In truth, of course, no British politician has ever been more despised by the British people than Margaret Thatcher. Thatcher’s funeral on Wednesday will be heavily policed for fear that the British tax-payer will want to finally express their view of Thatcher. They are certain to be tear-gassed out of sight by the police. United Kingdom? Syria? China? What’s the difference?”
Morrissey’s penchant for stirring people up would continue in the years to follow. While his charisma initially spearheaded a movement occupied by working-class music lovers, he would swiftly switch every positive essence he worked hard to achieve by making a series of comments which reflected more right-wing views.
As a result, the repercussions of Morrissey’s controversial remarks and actions have extended to the cancellation of concerts and boycotts of his music. While many work hard to separate the man from the music, particularly with The Smiths’ remarkable discography, these responses generally reflect and underscore the complexities of his evolving image in the public eye.
