Song lyrics analysis

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Songs often use many of the same literary techniques as poems, painting vivid pictures and emotions. To
practice the literary terminology reviewed in this module, you will choose a song that explores the theme of
culture or identity, then you will create a Discussion Board thread discussing your selection.

Locate and examine printed or digital text (CO 1)
Identify literary devices (CO 1, CO 2, CO 3)
Analyze literary themes (CO3)
Demonstrate understanding of material (CO 3)
Demonstrate effective use of digital tools to create an original response (CO 4)
Directions:
Select a song lyric focused on culture and/or identity and discuss how this theme is presented. Include discussion
of at least two literary devices used in the song, such as metaphor or alliteration, and explain how these devices
contribute to its theme. You are welcome to choose your own song, but you will also find song recommendations
within the module.

Sample Solution

This powerful song by Bruce Springsteen tackles the theme of cultural identity and racial profiling through the tragic story of Amadou Diallo, an unarmed African immigrant shot by police officers in New York City.

Theme: Cultural Identity and Racial Injustice

The song explores the struggle of reconciling cultural identity with the harsh realities of racial profiling in America. Springsteen portrays Diallo’s perspective, highlighting his yearning to belong (“He came from a place where there was no flag”) while facing suspicion solely based on his ethnicity.

Literary Devices:

  1. Repetition: The repeated line “41 shots” emphasizes the brutality of the shooting and serves as a haunting reminder of Diallo’s death.
  2. Imagery: Springsteen paints vivid pictures with lines like “forty-one years in the government / He never took a dime / But they took his life on the street for nothin'” This imagery evokes a sense of injustice and loss, highlighting the senselessness of the killing.
  3. Symbolism: The American flag can be interpreted as a symbol of both opportunity and the struggle for Diallo to be accepted as an American.

Contribution to Theme:

  • The literary devices work together to amplify the song’s central theme.
  • The repetition of “41 shots” underscores the violence and raises questions about excessive force.
  • The contrasting images of Diallo’s service and his tragic death highlight the racial profiling he faced.
  • The use of the American flag symbolizes the struggle for Diallo to reconcile his cultural identity with the reality of prejudice in America.

By employing these literary devices, Springsteen crafts a powerful and moving song that confronts the issues of racial identity and injustice in America. The song leaves a lasting impression and encourages listeners to reflect on these complex issues.

 

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