Please
The Bolshoi
A Plea for Recognition and Escape: The Bolshoi's 'Please'
The Bolshoi's song 'Please' is a poignant exploration of longing, desperation, and the quest for recognition. The lyrics are a series of pleas to various figures, each representing different facets of societal and personal obstacles. The repeated requests to 'Miss Lolita,' 'Mistress Bacon,' and 'Mr. Policeman' symbolize the barriers the protagonist faces in their pursuit of a dream or a better life. The use of these characters adds a layer of metaphor, suggesting that the protagonist feels trapped and powerless, seeking validation and escape from their current circumstances.
The refrain 'I've waited such a long time' underscores the theme of enduring patience and the frustration that comes with it. The protagonist's plea to 'Miss Lolita' not to 'burn my eyes' can be interpreted as a cry against the blinding allure of unattainable dreams. Similarly, the request to 'Mistress Bacon' not to 'sell me to your son' hints at a fear of being commodified or reduced to a mere transaction. The mention of 'Mr. Policeman' adds a societal dimension, highlighting the struggle against authoritative forces that demand conformity and movement along predetermined paths.
The song's narrative is steeped in a sense of waiting and yearning, with the protagonist standing at the metaphorical stage door, hoping for their moment of recognition. The imagery of 'cheap seats' and 'city streets' evokes a sense of marginalization and the desire to rise above one's station. The Bolshoi's post-punk style, characterized by its raw emotion and introspective lyrics, amplifies the song's themes, making 'Please' a powerful anthem for anyone who has ever felt overlooked or constrained by societal expectations.