The lyrics of "Seminole Bingo" tell the story of a junk bond king on the run with a friend, eventually ending up in Florida and falling in love with the game of bingo at the Seminole reservation, while hiding from the SEC and living a low-key life in a double-wide trailer.

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Meaning of "Seminole Bingo" by Warren Zevon


The song "Seminole Bingo" by Warren Zevon can be interpreted as a reflection on the consequences of a life of crime and deception. The protagonist, a junk bond king, is constantly running and hiding from authorities, represented by the SEC. Despite his financial success, he finds himself living in a trailer near the reservation, far from his previous life of wealth and luxury. The repeated mention of the SEC being far behind highlights the constant paranoia and fear of being caught. The choice of bingo, a simple and mundane game, as the protagonist's new obsession could symbolize his desire for a simpler life and a longing for innocence and purity. Ultimately, the song paints a picture of a man who has fallen from grace, living out his days in obscurity and isolation.