Bengali In Platforms

Morrissey's song 'Bengali In Platforms' delves into the complex themes of cultural displacement and identity. The lyrics tell the story of a Bengali individual trying to assimilate into Western culture, symbolized by the 'platforms.' The repeated lines 'He only wants to impress you' and 'He only wants to embrace your culture' highlight the protagonist's desire to fit in and be accepted. However, this desire is met with a harsh reality, as the song suggests that life is already challenging for those who 'belong here,' let alone for someone from a different cultural background.

The song's chorus, 'Shelve your Western plans,' serves as a poignant reminder of the difficulties faced by immigrants. Morrissey advises the Bengali individual to abandon their aspirations of fully integrating into Western society, emphasizing that life is already 'hard enough when you belong here.' This line underscores the inherent struggles of cultural assimilation and the emotional toll it takes on individuals who are caught between two worlds. The imagery of 'a silver-studded rim that glistens' and 'an ankle-star that blinds me' further illustrates the allure and subsequent disillusionment of Western culture.

Morrissey's lyrics also touch on the inevitability of time and change, as seen in the line 'It's the touchy march of time that binds you.' The song suggests that despite the protagonist's efforts, the passage of time and societal pressures will continue to shape their experience. The repeated plea to 'shelve your Western plans' and 'shelve your best friends' serves as a somber acknowledgment of the sacrifices and compromises that come with trying to belong in a foreign culture. Ultimately, 'Bengali In Platforms' is a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience, highlighting the emotional and cultural challenges faced by those who seek acceptance in a new land.