Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: ska
Song Meaning of “The Tears Of A Clown” by The English Beat
The Tears of a Clown tells the story of someone who is putting on a mask of happiness to hide their inner pain and suffering. The clown metaphor is used to reflect how even in the midst of sadness, the individual tries to put on a facade of joy and laughter to get through the day. The chorus of “Smiling and I’m crying / Inside I’m dying” speaks to the struggle of trying to keep up appearances while dying on the inside.
The song speaks to the idea of trying to cope with inner demons and darkness by hiding it through a false smile and cheerfulness. The individual is so overwhelmed by the sadness that they’ve been hiding, that it has become a way of life. Despite feeling isolated and unseen, they still attempt to appear fine on the outside. The song serves as a reminder that you can’t always trust a smile, and that only by allowing yourself to feel and express the emotional pain can you ultimately be free and find peace.