Kitsch
Dan Mangan + Blacksmith Lyrics

In this song, Dan Mangan of Blacksmith reflects on the absurdities of modern society while juxtaposing them against outdated values. The opening line, "Ladies in dresses, whores in the bedroom," highlights the contrast between the traditional and the contemporary. He then goes on to mention "holy obsessions" and "old boys in boardrooms," which serve as symbols of power and corruption in society.

Mangan then contrasts these with themes of safety and nostalgia, suggesting that people cling to outdated values because they provide a sense of security. He quips that we can "call it something we can all die to," implying that these values are ultimately a futile attempt to escape mortality.

The final lines of the song suggest that even though we may view these values as outdated, we still indulge in them. The reference to "boys in the trenches" and "love for the home team" implies that people are still willing to go to war and support their own in-group, despite the dangers that come with it.

Overall, "Kitsch" is a thought-provoking commentary on modern society and the contradictions inherent within it. Through his use of contrasting images and themes, Dan Mangan highlights the tension between old and new values and the ways in which they shape our lives.