The lyrics of "The Boston Rag" by Steely Dan tell a story and paint a picture of a specific time and place. Let's analyze the lyrics:
1. "Any news was good news, and the feeling was bad at home" - This line suggests that the narrator was in a difficult or troubled situation at home and relied on any news or distractions to escape from their problems.
2. "I was out of mind and you were on the phone" - This line implies that the narrator was preoccupied or distracted, and someone (possibly a significant other) was trying to reach them via phone.
3. "Lonnie was the kingpin back in nineteen sixty-five" - Lonnie is introduced as a significant character, possibly someone from the narrator's past. Referring to Lonnie as a "kingpin" suggests that he had influence or importance in some way during the year 1965.
4. "I was singing this song when Lonnie came alive" - This line suggests that the narrator has a connection or association with Lonnie and that the song may have a special significance related to their shared past.
5. "Bring back the Boston Rag, tell all your buddies that it ain't no drag" - The chorus emphasizes a desire to bring back the "Boston Rag," possibly a reference to a particular time, place, or lifestyle. The narrator wants to share this with their friends and convey that it's something enjoyable or worthwhile.
6. "You were Lady Bayside, there was nothing that I could do" - "Lady Bayside" appears to be another character, and the narrator expresses a sense of powerlessness or inability to influence her.
7. "So I pointed my car down Seventh Avenue" - This line indicates that the narrator took a specific action by driving down Seventh Avenue, suggesting a desire to escape or find something different.
8. "Lonnie swept the playroom and he swallowed up all he found" - Lonnie is portrayed as someone who takes control and dominates his environment. This could imply that he has a strong presence or personality.
9. "It was forty-eight hours til Lonnie came around" - This line suggests that Lonnie's influence or presence has a lasting impact, and the narrator had to wait for some time until Lonnie's return or involvement.
Overall, the lyrics of "The Boston Rag" depict a narrative about past experiences, relationships, and a desire to relive or recapture a certain time and place associated with Lonnie and the "Boston Rag." The song has a nostalgic and somewhat mysterious quality, inviting listeners to imagine the story behind the lyrics.
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