Introduction
Among all forms and types of art, songs tend to influence me the most due to the combination of lyrics and music. Due to tense geopolitical conflicts, the modern world is on the verge of nuclear Armageddon. Edwin Starr’s song “War” is my chosen historical and cultural work for the given analysis because it provides important meaning and message for current world events.
The Creator and Cultural Influences Behind the Work
The creator of the song “War” is Edwin Starr, who was influenced by the Vietnam War to write the song. It was essentially one of the first open protests against the war, expressed in a musical form. The integral characteristic that moves me the most is the lyrics, where Starr states, “War. What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!” The message in the song can be applied to the current conflicts, and it would be just as relevant and truthful.
How the Work’s Outstanding Features Shape My Interpretation
Whenever I hear on the news that ten or a thousand people died in a conflict, I cannot help but perceive it as a tragedy rather than a mere statistic. Invaluable lives are being lost, and immense suffering is being imposed upon millions, let alone the resources spent, which could have fed the poor and hungry. Thus, the lyrics make me emotional whenever I think or hear about war because they reveal the ugly and tragic side of such a conflict, regardless of the causes and motivations behind it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “War” by Edwin Starr is my anti-war anthem, which is highly relevant and important in today’s world of conflict. I primarily value it for its lyrics because they carry a deep meaning reflected in its message of peace. It addresses how wars are always tragic due to the loss of invaluable lives, and listening to Starr makes me deeply emotional due to the truthfulness of his words.