Title: Decoding the Hidden Message in “Civilization (Bongo – Bongo – Bongo)” by Danny Kaye
Intro:
Music has a way of conveying emotions that can be difficult to express in words. It can speak to the soul and transport us to different times and places. One such song that has stood the test of time is “Civilization (Bongo – Bongo – Bongo)” by Danny Kaye. Beyond its catchy tune and upbeat rhythm, the song carries a powerful message about colonialism, racism, and imperialism. Let’s take a closer look and decode the hidden meaning behind the lyrics.
The Origins and Inspiration
“Civilization (Bongo – Bongo – Bongo)” was written by Bob Hilliard and Carl Sigman in 1947. It was first performed by Danny Kaye in the movie “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”. The song came at a time when the world was still reeling from the aftermath of the Second World War and the effects of colonialism and imperialism were still prevalent in many parts of the world. The lyrics were inspired by the ancient practice of playing bongo drums in Africa and were paired with a melody that had hints of calypso and swing.
The Lyrics
At first glance, the lyrics of “Civilization (Bongo – Bongo – Bongo)” seem harmless enough. It talks about a person who wants to escape the modern world and return to a simpler way of life. However, as the song progresses, we learn that the person does not want to escape to a utopia, but rather to a place that is underdeveloped and “uncivilized”. The lines “They hurry like savages to get aboard an iron train and though it’s smoky and it’s crowded they’re too civilized to complain” and “And when they’ve got two weeks vacation, they hurry to vacation ground/They swim and they fish, but that’s what I do all year round” indicate a condescending view towards other cultures and their way of life.
Racism and Colonialism
The term “Bongo – Bongo – Bongo” is used in the song repeatedly and is meant to represent the African people. The phrase is a derogatory term that was used by Western Europeans during the colonial era to demean and dehumanize the people of Africa. The song perpetuates the stereotype that Africa and its people are uncivilized and primitive. The line “What’s the use of television?/They’ve got a thing called ‘chopstick’” suggests that Western culture is superior and that other cultures should conform to it.
The Message
The message of “Civilization (Bongo – Bongo – Bongo)” is one of colonial supremacy and ethnocentrism. It implies that the western world and its way of life is better than the rest of the world and that other cultures should strive to imitate it. The song reinforces a narrative that has been used for centuries by colonial powers to justify their actions and to oppress other cultures.
Conclusion
In today’s world, we have come a long way in terms of cultural sensitivity and understanding. However, songs like “Civilization (Bongo – Bongo – Bongo)” serve as a reminder of our past prejudices and the work that still needs to be done to create a truly inclusive and accepting society. Music can be a powerful tool for change, and it is up to us to use it to spread positivity and understanding.
