Coffee Cake
Benson Boone
The Missed Connection of 'Coffee Cake'
Benson Boone's 'Coffee Cake' is a poignant reflection on missed connections and the longing for what might have been. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a regular morning at a coffee shop, a place where people often hope to encounter romance or companionship. The protagonist of the song is someone who has been observing another person, possibly a regular customer, and has developed a sense of curiosity and attraction towards them. However, there's a sense of resignation as the protagonist acknowledges that they are just another passerby to the object of their affection.
The repeated chorus, which speaks of spending days talking over 'lousy coffee cake,' suggests a desire for a deeper connection that goes beyond superficial interactions. The coffee cake, described as 'lousy,' could symbolize the mundane or everyday experiences that could become special with the right person. The song captures the essence of wanting to share those ordinary moments with someone and the sadness of not having that opportunity. The mention of 'another life' implies a wish for an alternate reality where the chance for a relationship isn't missed.
The setting of the song is also significant. Coffee shops are often seen as social hubs, yet they can also be places of isolation where individuals are engrossed in their own worlds. This duality is reflected in the song's narrative, where the protagonist is surrounded by people but feels alone, fixated on what could have been with one particular individual. 'Coffee Cake' is a contemplative track that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the feeling of an opportunity slipping away, leaving them to wonder about the possibilities.