Ben by Michael Jackson Lyrics Meaning – Unveiling The Portrait of Unconditional Friendship
Lyrics
We both found what we were looking for
With a friend to call my own
I’ll never be alone
And you, my friend, will see
You’ve got a friend in me
(You’ve got a friend in me)
Ben you’re always running here and there (here and there)
You feel you’re not wanted anywhere (anywhere)
If you ever look behind
And don’t like what you find
There’s something you should know
You’ve got a place to go
(You’ve got a place to go)
I used to say “I” and “me”
Now it’s “us”, now it’s “we”
(I used to say “I” and “me”)
(Now it’s “us”, now it’s “we”)
Ben most people would turn you away (turn you away)
I don’t listen to a word they say (a word they say)
They don’t see you as I do
I wish they would try to
I’m sure they’d think again
If they had a friend like Ben
(A friend)
Like Ben
(Like Ben)
Like Ben
When Michael Jackson crooned the tender lyrics of ‘Ben,’ he was not merely uttering words to a melody; he was conveying a profound narrative on the essence of companionship. Released in 1972, the song encapsulates a moving blend of innocence and depth, an elegant echo of the era it stemmed from.
As Michael sings about the bond he shares with Ben, listeners are swept into a ballad that is ostensibly about an endearing friendship. However, a deeper listen unveils layers of resonance that relate to universal human experiences. Here, we delve into the touching poignancy of ‘Ben’ and the heartfelt sentiments that this timeless track carries.
A Symphony of Solace: The Power of Finding ‘the One’
The opening lines of ‘Ben’ introduce us to a foundational human longing – the search for a kindred spirit. The song confronts the solace in finding ‘the one’ who understands and accepts us. Jackson reveals the liberating emotion of no longer feeling solitary in the world once this person comes into our lives.
This narrative transcends into an effusive reconciliation between the yearning self and the found companion. Michael Jackson’s youthful voice serves as the vessel for this message, imbuing it with an authenticity that anyone who has found their ‘Ben’ would deeply resonate with.
From Isolation to Inclusion: A Heartfelt Turnaround
In a remarkable shift from individualism to unity, ‘Ben’ takes us on a journey of a solitary ‘I’ molding into a collaborative ‘us’. This transition is about more than simple camaraderie; it’s about an ineffable connection that transforms and elevates our concept of self.
Often in life, a sense of not belonging can weigh heavily on an individual. ‘Ben’ comes across as a sanctuary, a lyrical promise that there is a space for everyone, a place to go where one is wanted and will be seen not for what the masses perceive, but for their true selves.
The Resonance of Unconditional Acceptance
What anchors ‘Ben’ deeply in the hearts of those who listen is its theme of unwavering acceptance. Regardless of the character Ben’s origins or the skepticism of others, Michael’s declaration of fealty to his friend ignites the feeling that true friendship overlooks differences and embraces the other for who they are.
The unjudgmental perspective Michael sings from is a testament to the purity of the bond portrayed in the song. It is a testament to empathy, urging listeners to consider the value in trying to see the world through others’ eyes and finding common ground in shared emotions.
Unveiling the Hidden Meaning: Metaphors for Marginalization
On the surface, ‘Ben’ seems simply about a boy and his friend. Yet, beneath its veneer lies a potent allegory for marginalization and the shared experiences of those cast out by society. The lyrics covertly mirror the loneliness and misunderstood sentiments that resonate with anyone who has felt on the outskirts of societal norms.
By framing the narrative around the character of Ben, Michael Jackson lends voice to the outcasts, providing a musical shoulder to lean on, a reassurance that loneliness is not a singular battle, but a universal feeling that can be eased with genuine connection.
Memorable Lines and Their Eternal Echo
The chorus line ‘You’ve got a friend in me’ is etched into the collective consciousness, not just for its warm melodic hook but for its quintessential truth – the proclamation of steadfast companionship. This is the promise, the pledge of ‘Ben’, ensuring the listener and the subject alike that they are not alone.
‘I used to say
