The Meaning Behind The Song: Bengali in Platforms by Morrissey
As a devoted Morrissey fan, I have always been drawn to the depth and nuance in his lyrics. One song in particular that has captivated me is “Bengali in Platforms” from his 1988 album, Viva Hate. This song is not only musically captivating but also carries a powerful message about cultural identity and the struggle to belong.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
The song begins with the catchy chorus: “Bengali, Bengali. Bengali, Bengali. No, no, no, he does not want to depress you. Oh, no, no, no, no, no, he only wants to impress you.” These lines introduce the central theme of the song, which is the protagonist’s fascination with Bengali culture and his desire to be accepted by it.
The first verse continues: “Bengali in platforms, he only wants to embrace your culture and to be your friend forever.” Here, Morrissey portrays the protagonist as someone yearning to connect with the Bengali community and form long-lasting bonds. It highlights the universal human desire for belonging and acceptance.
The chorus reappears, with added lyrics emphasizing the struggle of embracing one’s cultural identity: “Oh, shelve your Western plans and understand, ‘Cause life is hard enough when you belong here.” This line suggests that the protagonist believes life becomes even more challenging when cultural identity clashes with societal expectations.
The second verse paints colorful imagery: “A silver-studded rim that glistens and an ankle-star that blinds me, a lemon sole so very high.” These poetic descriptions add to the melancholic tone of the song and evoke a sense of longing and unattainability. The verse continues with the protagonist urging the listeners to gently break the news of shelving their plans, suggesting that expectations must be adjusted in order to navigate the complexities of cultural identity.
The third and final chorus echoes the sentiment of the previous iteration, emphasizing the difficulty of belonging: “It’s the touchy march of time that binds you. Don’t blame me, don’t hate me, just because I am the one to tell you, that life is hard enough when you belong here.”
Personal Experiences
For me, “Bengali in Platforms” resonates on a deeply personal level. As a second-generation immigrant, I have often grappled with questions of identity and belonging. This song beautifully encapsulates the struggle to find acceptance and connect with my cultural roots while living in a society that may not fully understand my experiences.
The lyrics also highlight the delicate balance between embracing one’s heritage and reconciling it with Western societal norms. This delicate dance can be both enriching and challenging, as it requires constant adjustment and navigation between different worlds.
Moreover, the personal anecdotes shared by David Stubbs, a British music journalist, shed light on the impact this song had on those who identified with Morrissey’s sense of being an outsider. The disappointment experienced by Gurbir Thethy, an Asian fan of The Smiths, upon hearing “Bengali in Platforms” speaks volumes about the power of music to either unite or exclude individuals.
Conclusion
“Bengali in Platforms” is more than just a song—it is a poignant reminder of the complexities of cultural identity and the yearning for acceptance. Morrissey’s introspective lyrics and heartfelt delivery strike a chord with anyone who has felt the struggle of not quite fitting in.
Through this song, Morrissey sheds light on the challenges faced by those who straddle the line between their cultural roots and the society they live in. It serves as a reminder to be compassionate and understanding towards those navigating the intricacies of cultural identity.
Let “Bengali in Platforms” be a catalyst for conversations on acceptance, inclusivity, and the beauty of embracing diverse cultures.
