Song meaning of Bensonhurst Blues by Oscar Benton

The song "Bensonhurst Blues" by Oscar Benton touches on themes of success, facades, and inner struggles. It portrays a character who appears to be successful, as mentioned with a "pretty secretary" and a smiling face that suggests he has paid his dues. However, the lyrics suggest that this success is superficial and hides a deeper sense of unhappiness.

The mention of "custom-made ciggies" that are offered but not truly cared about, along with the lies and pretense depicted by the pictures on the desk, imply a lack of genuine connection or concern for others. The character's grandmother's accent embarrasses him, which suggests a degree of shame or detachment from his own heritage.

Despite the external trappings of success, the character is plagued by the "Bensonhurst blues," suggesting a sense of dissatisfaction or emptiness that cannot be shaken. This may reflect the idea that material wealth and success do not necessarily bring happiness or fulfillment.

The lyrics also convey a contrast between the character's life and the life the narrator chooses. The narrator rejects the facades of success and opts for a different path that won't bring the same sense of disillusionment. The song concludes with a dismissal of the character's attempts to maintain contact, implying the narrator's decision to distance themselves from the unauthenticity of the character's world.

Overall, "Bensonhurst Blues" delivers a message about the hollowness of superficial success, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and seeking true happiness and fulfillment.