Introduction
The cultural aspect is a significant part of human lives, even during specific crises. The wars that happen in the world during various eras are full of tragedies and deaths. However, such cultural attributes as songs play a vital role in depicting these happenings and translating their meanings.
This essay will consider particular songs, their tons, lyrics, and other specifications, that were written in the period of wars. Particular attention will be paid to how each song delivers and influences the topic of war and which influence it has on the listener. Qualitative music such as “Over There” by George M. Cohan and “Fortunate Son” by John Fogarty can trigger deeper feelings in peoples’ hearts while urging them to immerse themselves in the details and tragedies of the wars.
“The Battle Hymn of the Republic” by Julia Ward Howe
The first song that should be explored profoundly came from the era of the Civil War. “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” is a great example of how music can illustrate people’s crucial feelings and empathy regarding war events. This hymn incorporates powerful and extraordinary words that correlate with such aspects as duty, adventurousness, bravery, and heroism. For example, as Julia Ward Howe (1861) states, “let us die to make men free!” (00.03.53). Therefore, one should state that as a reflection of the cultural response to the Civil War, there is a highlight of the people’s duty to serve the country. Culture stresses the need to combat unfairness and free people. The song’s lyrics, the sound, and the rhythm
“Over There” by George M. Cohan
The following song written by George M. Cohan is “Over There.” It represents the World War I era and incorporates in its lyrics the specific characteristics of that period. The main difference with other songs is in the quick song’s rhythm (George Cohan, 1917). The song also has specific sound attributes such as trumpets, whistles, marches, and others. They create a specific atmosphere and tend to immerse the listener into the battlefield.
“We Will Meet Again” by Arthur Young and Vera Lynn
“We Will Meet Again” was written during the period of World War II. The song’s cultural response to the war is depicted through its lyrics and tone, which are full of hope and love. In addition, it is vital to state that the chosen songs have different rhythms while making accents, on the one hand, on the bravery and sacrifice, and, on the other hand, on the sorrow for soldiers who gave their lives for future generations (Arthur Young & Vera Lynn, 1939). However, their similarity is in highlighting the hope and commitment of the people on the way to saving the future.
“Fortunate Son” by John Fogarty
As my favorite song from the different eras, I have selected the “Fortunate Son” by John Fogarty. This art piece was written during the Vietnam War and incorporated specific feelings and time peculiarities of this tragedy. My personal connection with this song is depicted through the tolerance and compassion towards the soldiers who gave their lives for the prosperity and well-being of the entire humanity. However, the song depicts these feelings from a brave and powerful perspective while stating significant lyrics. For example, according to John Fogarty (1998), “some folks are born made to wave the flag” (00.00.32). It correlates with my opinion that despite the significant challenges and losses, one should be brave enough to face them and stand strong. The song’s tone and rhythm urge the listener to act and to serve their country and the people whom they love.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is vital to stress that the chosen songs represent the cultural response to the wars from a strong and powerful position. The song that resonated with me is “We Will Meet Again” as, despite the fact that the lyrics incorporate empathy and sorrow, the main aim is to highlight the bravery and commitment of the people and, particularly, soldiers. The songs are aimed to inspire people to serve their country and save it for future generations.
References
Arthur Young and Vera Lynn. (1939). We will Meet Again [Song]. On We will Meet Again [Album]. Michael Ross Limited.
George M. Cohan. (1917). Over There [Song].
John Fogarty. (1998). Fortunate Son [Song]. On Premonition [Album].
Julia Ward Howe. (1861). The Battle Hymn of the Republic [Song]. The Atlantic Monthly.