The United States is
being (re)shaped by profound political and social changes, watershed
technological innovation, increasing ethnic diversity, and a complex mixture of
cultures. As in the past, contemporary American writers have responded to these
historical and cultural forces, both by adapting traditional literary forms and
finding new ones.
The song is another
literary form that is used to document personal experiences of people in their
environments. These songs mostly address concerns of the past but end with hopes
of shaping the future. How do the artists use language to combat the social
barriers of their reality, while also defining the role of a socially conscious
individual in the United States? How does the structure and language of the song contribute to its purpose?
Same format: post a response and respond to someone else.
Same format: post a response and respond to someone else.
Laurice Skinner
ReplyDeletePeriod 8th
In Young Americans artist, David Bowie presents a critique of the American Dream. The song tells the story of two newlyweds who during the time would be an example of that dream. As the young man experiences the reality of the glorified American dream and materialism he is faced with confusion. As does a young woman in Danticat’s Nineteen Thirty-Seven who shares her experience of visiting her mother in prison, and the reluctance she initially feels upon seeing her suffering. Bowie and Danticat use their pieces to combat the social barriers of their reality, while defining the role of a socially conscious individuality with the use of allusions to present their experiences. In Nineteen Thirty Seven, a nameless narrator describes her mother vividly decaying and withering, describing “her face as the gray of a late evening sky” and “her eyes that had the look of delirium” (Danticat 43). This depicts the loss of humanity and identity brought by the gloom of prison. Similar to David Bowie’s Young Americans in which a man is faced with confusion as he realizes “We live for just these twenty years; do we have to die for the 50 more?” (David Bowie).The man has realized that there is more to life beyond the materialistic standards while “Scanning life through the picture window, she finds a slinky vagabond, He coughs as he passes her Ford Mustang” (David Bowie). The couple has become conscious of the bourgeois ways represent nothing of value, but instead the worship of items while alluding to a Mustang. The mustang which was subject to American desire during the time. The incorporation of the experiences in a story-like format reveals the lack of cultural, moral, and individualism in the post-industrial era. Although, they present their experiences in two differing geographical locations, the artists overlap in the ideas that they present. As Bowie, a British man presents his perception of the American experience, Danticat shows her perspective as a member of Haiti’s society sharing a theme of conformity. A problem that society faces today as it is socially frowned upon to disagree with society’s standards.
I agree with you, Laurice as the main character Josephine has expressed much devastation but with it, came realization of who she is within her society. Likewise, Bowie's music served to show people that the American Dream really wasn't a reality, but instead, a fantasy many people have come to recognize as the ultimate goal in life. Within the text, upon the loss of her mother, Josephine was able to distinguish the importance of her role not just to the story, but to the fellow river-goers as well; this was her reality. On the other hand, conformity doesn't necessarily play a major role in Danticat's piece. More so, it is the individuality seen within women like Jacqueline that allows for Josephine to find the fire to go on being the passionate daughter of Manman.
DeleteCarolina Vallin
DeleteI appreciate that you incorporated Danticat's piece into your response, but I would not say that Josephine's story had a theme of conformity. The entire reason the women in the story were imprisoned was because they defied their original fate of dying on the other side of the river. And you mentioned that Bowie and Danticat used allusions in their pieces, but I do not feel that you specified what those allusions were.
I completely agree with you Sosna and Carolina.When I mentioned the theme of conformity I was refering to the idea that the woman in jail was forced into accepting Haitian ideals when she placed in jail.I should have explained my thinking further,but to be honest I was a bit confused as to how to explain it with one word.
Delete-Laurice Skinner
David Massengill's song "The Great American Dream" shows how the American Dream can be interpreted differently by people with different races and backgrounds. Throughout the song, there are 6 different views on what the American dream is. Massengill in each passage first portrays the hardships they are facing and what their dreams are. The passage with the carpenter is a great example of this. In the beginning of the passage, the carpenter talks about how he has "been laid off since December" and that he wants to "build a castle all (his) own" (David Massengill). The being jobless is a social barrier that was and is still very common in society today and the fact the carpenter mentions this shows that he is a socially conscious individual. David Massengill also uses parallelism to help to prove the hardships and wants of the people in the song. One example of the parallelism is the "Excuse me Sir..." at the beginning of all of the passages (David Massengill). That line shows the people talking to this one person about their experiences and dreams, hence the person learning about what is really going in society and that The Great American Dream is something that can not be easily obtained. Another aspect of parallelism is when each of the people states "My dream is..." at the end of each of the passages (David Massengill). That dream that the people in each of the passages talk about is something that those people know is hard to obtain which overall contributes to the overall purpose of this song which is to show that The Great American Dream is not easily obtained and that you have to overcome bad events to have a shot at reaching a dream
ReplyDeleteVictoria Gnat
ReplyDelete8th Period
In the hip-hop song “Changes”, Tupac Shakur exposes the hardships of African Americans in the late 20th century with the use of allusions to inspire traditionally marginalized people to make a difference. Unlike many artists of this time, his lyrics spoke about existent issues that individuals confronted daily. Tupac’s life experiences affected his outlook on life. By being a victim of an oppressive system, he realized that black communities cannot expect change if they do not unite and stop the poverty and racial inequality. Tupac says, “My stomach hurts so I’m looking for a purse to snatch” (Tupac 1). This line illustrates the cyclic injustice of African Americans. Regardless of their moral compass, the poverty of African Americans at the time caused them to commit crimes just to survive. Although the Civil-Rights movement occurred in the 50’s and 60’s, Tupac still “sees no changes” (1). By using powerful allusions, Tupac provides evidence of the social barriers that African Americans face. He alludes to the Black Panther Party – a black revolutionary socialist organization – and the Gulf War. He raps, “It’s war on the streets and a war in the Middle East, instead of war on poverty” (Tupac 3). Tupac exposes the immoral actions that the American government executes. The authority pays more attention to war in foreign countries than to the corruption in American during the 90s. With the use of media, Tupac was able to influence and change the perception of African Americans.
I agree with you Victoria and i do see what you are saying about how he tries to bring more awareness of the problems that are happening in the communities. I also thought that he was saying that by saying "instead of war on poverty" like hes saying that we should be aware about whats happening in our own communities first.
DeleteI agree with your analysis 100% Victoria. Even though I did not have the same song I agree with your analysis that America is ignorant to see the continuance of racial/gender discrimination that is right underneath it's nose. You had the evidence from the lyrics to prove it and the fact that I can clearly understand your paragraph while also getting the overall idea of your song shows how well you did.
DeleteVictoria,
DeleteI like your paragraph, it is short and very easy to read. I agree with you on how Tupac is trying to show the hardships of African Americans at the time. I like how you stated "The authority pays more attention to war in foreign countries than to the corruption in American during the 90s." America was ignorant to problems occurring within the society because they were trying to keep that perfect image of America individuals had.
I like how you explained Tupac's place in the black community and how impactful his music is. I like that you brought in how his message was directed at blacks to unite against discrimination and his message to America to acknowledge the racial discrimination in the country and change it. I agree completely.
DeleteLuis Almanza
ReplyDeleteAmerican Literature 8th
May 11, 2014
In Neil Diamond's 1980 song "America", Diamond creates the association between Judea Christian values as the identity of a true American. Diamond alludes to this when he says "Make our bed and we'll say our grace" (5) stating that true American's pray to God to guide them through the hardships. The constant word "dream" also alludes to the metaphorical religious dream that God has planned out for every individual which America associates itself with. However, the constant juxtaposition Diamond associates with the Immigrants bringing "a dream they have come to share", with their dream possiblely not relating to Judea Christian beliefs (7). That their dream is what makes immigrants true Americans that the constant nostalgia of obtaining what is unattainable is the true American identity. Making the mere Judea Christian beliefs ironic in how insignificant they are. That Neil Diamond does this purposefully create the notion that the American identity is constructed by the constructer which are all linked by a dream.
I agree with you, Luis, and I see where the references to the Judea-Christian values are. I think the "dream" that he keeps repeatedly talking about could also be the "American Dream" of working your way up to money in a country that allows you to do that. However, I feel like your sentence "That their dream is what makes immigrants true Americans that the constant nostalgia of obtaining what is unattainable is the true American identity" is kind of unclear and maybe you could elaborate more?
DeleteI understand what your getting at with the Christianity idea, however maybe there is a greater message to be conveyed her, after all I think its a huge assumption about Americans being Christian because of one line about saying grace.
DeleteThe artist Tupac Shakur has used his sense of songwriting to show the harsh realities of urban america. In the song Changes which was recorded in 1992 but released in 1998 shows how growing up as a black youth brought on discrimination and inequality. In the song he says "I see no changes all I see is racist faces misplaced hate makes disgrace to races" which here he is showing how people are still racist which is something that was wanted abolished during the Civil rights movement. He is also bringing more awareness because it wasn't really thought of alot because it was more acknowledge during the Civil rights movement. Tupac also says "learn to see me as a brother instead of two distant strangers" which here he's trying to bring awareness to the fact that there was a lot of black on black violence around that time and is trying to bring them together as a community and race so the violence can stop. Tupac also alludes to Huey P. Newton who was founder of the black panthers a group which both his parents were involved in. “‘Its time to fight back’, that's what Huey said two shots in the dark now Huey's dead” here is Tupac alluding to Huey P. Newton this shows how since the Black Panthers wanted to help it also is the same as how Tupac wants to help and bring awareness.
ReplyDeleteI think you did a good job of showing how does the structure and language of the song contribute to its purpose because as you state Tupac in "Changes" is trying to bring back awarness to the on going discrimination to African Americans post Civil Rights movement and also showing the struggles of African Americans in Americans during the late 90's.
DeleteIn "America" by Neil Diamond, the constant flow of immigration into the U.S. is portrayed as acceptable and as a reason why America was established in the first place. However, Diamond makes no indication that room for different belief systems and cultures will be made for these immigrants when they are in America. Diamond often references predominantly Christian values in his song, ones of "Make our bed and we'll say our grace...But not without a star" (Diamond 1). Saying of prayers before bed is often a "Christian" thing to do, as well as many references are made in the Bible of Jesus and a "star." By saying that these two things are what "we'll" do, Diamond indicates that doing these things are expected as an "Ideal American" and touches on the idea of acceptance through assimilation into America. Similarly, the song's reference to "My Country 'Tis of Thee" supports this idea of acceptance through assimilating to "Ideal" culture as it brings nationalistic feelings forward as well as shows that these immigrants are allowed and should come here. According to Diamond, all of America is united- with or without different cultures being swept under the rug of "Ideal American."
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Noah about the whole religion aspect. America was a melting pot for people of all races and religions to come to and be accepted. Some of these people had a "dream to take them there" which served as their motive for coming into America (Neil Diamond). Everyone who came to America had a dream and they thought that coming to America would give them a greater shot at achieving their dream regardless of race and culture.
DeleteLuis Almanza
DeletePeriod 8
Though I agree Noah, that Diamond is showing that their is no other room for different beliefs system the importance of his repetitiveness is for a reason. The reason is to show how trivial religion really is but how during the time this song was written (1980) religion was taken seriously and determined how "American" a individual you really are. The repetitiveness was used as a device to deconstruct the power which religion has by making the song ironic in how Christian it is focused on. Though Diamond is showing how narrow minded the American people are in the aspect of religion it is also showing how little religion really matters.
In the song "Changes", Tupac's tone is aggressive/angry, yet motivational. His tone is used to bring awareness upon the issues of social poverty and racism. Tupac wants to become a leader like Martin Luther King Jr. and inspire African Americans to take a stand and make changes to better their lifestyle. Tupac is aware of what is going on in his environment; therefore, he speaks out against it in order to change the way African Americans are treated. This song emphasizes Tupac's message through the use of repetition because he is trying to change the way blacks are treated. He wants to get rid of discrimination, poverty. Tupac says, "Cause both Black and White are smoking crack tonight". Tupac is trying to prove that all races commit crimes; however, only blacks are targeted and labeled as criminals. The black community is being oppressed and that it not right; therefore, it must come together to change these issues for the better.
ReplyDeleteI agree, however, I do not think he was wanting to become a leader, he just wanted change. Tupac wanted the whole black community to unite to change the system, and he wanted to help spark the revolution. I do agree with the rest of your statement; specifically, how you referenced the lyric with both black and whites smoking crack. By quoting that, it give credit to your statement.
DeleteIn "Changes", 2Pac uses language to paint a picture of the lives of Black people living in "their" oppressive America. As he raps "I'm tired of bein' poor and even worse I'm Black" (1). As Victoria has stated earlier, this was a time consisting of cyclic crime particularly with the African Americans. This became an issue because as Black people lived in poverty, they were not given the opportunities to go in the right direction in life and when they had no other option, they resorted to crime in order to get by. In addition, 2Pac states, "Cops give a damn about a negro? Pull the trigger, kill a nigga, he's a hero" (1). This is seen as a controversial topic as police targeted African Americans and during the time, it was common for a person of another race to find justification and acceptance for murdering a Black individual. 2Pac uses repetition as he says "no changes" throughout the course of the song. He's protesting the "no changes" that he sees and encourages his fellow people to make changes in their lives for their own benefit. He discourages hatred and jealousy especially within the race because that only holds each other back in an already oppressive society. 2Pac ultimately pushes the concept of unity and standing as one in order to grow stronger as a Black community.
ReplyDeleteSosna , you're interpretation of the song "Changes" is very accurate. Tupac was a very controversial rapper , so in this particular song he voices his opinion about how the black community really lives. He brings attention to the corrupt authorities and how it affects the black community as a whole. He relates this to how African Americans have to kill, or be killed in order to get by.
DeleteI agree. Tupac did help the Black community to become stronger in a way that helped give hope because of the situation they were in at the time. The fact that Tupac repeats the word "changes" throughout the song emphasizes that America needs to become more united in order to help tackle the "war on poverty" (Tupac 4).
DeleteIn Bob Dylan's song "The times They Are-A-Changin'" He uses his first verse to allude to a flood, and it acts as a broad religious reference for all to interpret. Dylan then persists that society should get with the changes ,adapt, and accept these changes in society during the 1960-70s when he sings "If your time to you Is worth savin' Then you better start swimmin' Or you'll sink like a stone For the times they are a-changin'." In this line he uses a simile to represent the fall of society if they stay with old Protestant values the country was founded off of. Dylan then uses the second verse to warn the authors, journalists, artists, mothers, and fathers of the time to watch for change, observe it, and record it because if these different groups aren't aware then they no longer have a place in society. Dylan talks of sudden twists of fate, unexpected victories from minority groups when he says "The slow one now will later be fast. Dylan also relates to Vietnam War and tells our politicians to stop closing their eyes to the fact that Vietnam is real, people are getting killed, and it will soon hit closer to home. Dylan uses certain language and structure to describe the shifting views soon to come in post American society and America can no longer live in the past but should be ready for the future.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your response, especially the last sentence about American society focusing on the past rather than the present and future. I listened to the song and the message I receive is that things are changing in the 20th/21st century and those changes should be accepted for the better because the past was not perfect, and people should work towards a goal to reshape America into a diversified nation.
DeleteI agree with most of the argument you are making Janaei. Dylan does make a biblical reference and encourage Americans to change their traditional mindsets to make room for the modern world's ideologies. However, I think the biblical reference is not similie, but an allusion. Similies are figures of speech where to unlike things are compared. Allusion is when a well known character or situation from history is referenced in music, art, or other literary work. The word "like" also eliminates the possibility of this phrase being a simile.
DeleteI agree with Janaei's understanding of the song. I believe that at the time there were many people who thought that old beliefs were still relevant and chose to ignore the changes going on around them. While having conviction in one own's beliefs is respectable, there needs to be room for adapting and accepting change which Bob Dylan does a great job stating. Mentioning the Vietnam War was most likely a quick way to get this message across.
DeleteI agree with everything you say Janei. The song does display a sense of warning by using hyperboles and allusions to biblical events. I love how you mentioned the Vietnam War. Although the song was written in 1964, it still has meaning today. The 60s were a time of a Black Revolution and loud protest against a mysterious war, while today there is a Gay Revolution and silent protest against useless wars. Dylan's vague lyrics make it a song for any era of uncertainty. Also, the way it is written, or rather, sung gives it credibility, as Dylan does not sound like a rebellious youth or their "evil" parent, but like a wise grandfather. Also Teya, using "like" or "as" makes a phrase a simile.
DeleteIn "The Times Are Changing," Bob Dylan expresses America's inability to adapt to new world concepts through metaphor and allusion. Dylan alludes to Christian stories when he says, "...the waters around you have grown/ Then you better start swimmin'/ Or you'll sink like a stone" (4-9). In the story of Noah's Arc, God decided to purify the world from the wickedness man had become. Similarly, Dylan explains to his listeners that they will be left behind if they fail to accept the ideas of the modern world. Dylan later uses metaphor to describe the turmoil blacks faced with civil rights. In the 1960s, "Senators and congressman" were making laws to validate the marginalized (23). The vivid image of "a battle outside" that will "shake your windows and rattle your walls" magnifies the impact the fight for civil rights had on American society (29-32). Dylan's usage of metaphor and allusion compel traditional Americans to recognize modern ideas, and warn them being left behind.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Teya. When Dylan talks about sinking like a stone reminds me of how immigrants had to blend in, people had to start getting used to the rise in technology. If people did not blend in with others, they were socially not accepted. As new ideas and inventions came floating in, o;d ideas, traditions, cultures were pushed out. Dylan used a lot of literary devices to get this point across.
DeleteI agree with you Teya, about how Dylan alludes to the stories of the Bible. The allusions to Noah’s Arc were very effective and got your point across. You also did a great job in connecting the song with the Civil Rights and how you added your quotes to fully emphasize your point.
DeleteTeya I really like your incorporation of the biblical allusions,they are very effective and strenghen your argument.
Delete-Laurice Skinner
I agree
DeleteIn Lila Downs’ song “Pastures of Plenty”, Lila uses literary devices to establish her culture and her ethnicity as part of America’s culture. Being an American means sharing the American dream and building the dream. “I've worked on your orchards of peaches and prunes/
ReplyDeleteSlept on the ground by the light of your moon/At the edge of your cities you will see us and then”(Downs 5-8) Downs considers her culture to be apart of a American culture because of the the fact that Latinos share the same sky as an American, Latinos work like Americans do on the land. With this technique she is accepts her culture and has pride in it, but also wants acceptance from others. She continues to define her view of an American by using this language throughout the song. She defines the role of a socially conscious individual as she acknowledges the unacceptance still present in Latinos and Americans when she questions the so called Americans throughout the song “Say you're American but what does that mean/You are the particle, the dust in the scheme/Now that you have all the things that you want/Did you ever look around and see who you forgot”(Downs 33-36) These words play a big impact on how Latinos should view themselves and how they should be viewed in others eyes, whether they are socially unaccepted or not.
I agree, she questions American society and acceptance and she focuses on the social consciousness and validity of her culture as part of America. Downs uses a lot of literary devices but you didn't mention where she was questioned about being an American. That would have fit in after you talked about acknowledging the un-acceptance still present in Latinos and Americans.
DeleteIn the song Changes by Tupac, the artist's open criticism of society's predisposition towards the black community reveals the ever-present tensions found across all of post-modernist America. Using statements like "instead of war on poverty, they got a war on drugs so the police can bother me" (Tupac 3) he hints at the corruption in the police forces and at their notorious racism towards black people. He continues to call out stereotyping in the verse "I'm tired of bein' poor and even worse I'm black. My stomach hurts, so I'm lookin' for a purse to snatch"(Tupac 1) explicitly denouncing the all too well-known generalization that all people of color are uneducated and poor and out to steal whatever they can get their hands on. Tupac’s song serves as both an informative piece and a warning, raising awareness of the conditions of living for those in the black community and also affirming the fact that if society doesn't change it will suffer consequences of even more protest and eventually, violence.
ReplyDeleteI agree- I think this song is different from the others, as it aims to raise awareness of society's ills rather than glorify the existent American condition. By directly addressing the problems of the role of African Americans in society, Tupac questions the authenticity of the "American dream." His powerful lyrics reflect his vision of a socially conscious individual as someone who strives to reform and modernize the American system (a contrast to the "socially conscious" individual who only reaps the benefits of the American dream, as portrayed in many of the other songs).
Delete"America" by Neil Diamond depicting a positive interpretation of immigrants coming to the United Sates. Neil Diamond, born to a Jewish family of Polish and Russian descent in Brooklyn, understands the importance of immigration to the United States. Diamond uses allusions of religion to relate Americans to their roots. Diamond uses "grace" and the star to remind Americans of one of their founding principles when coming to the new land. Relating religion back to immigration reminds people of where they came from, thus making Americans more aware. Diamond also alludes to the patriotic song "My Country 'Tis of Thee" to evoke pride in what America has become. While mentioning immigration, Diamond is stressing the importance of how immigration has formed America to what it is. With allusions of religion and patriotic songs, Diamond is successful in reminding people of their lineage, which is a result from immigration
ReplyDeleteI completely agree. It is funny to see how hypocritical Americans can be. They would/and still do criticize immigrants for their beliefs even though they too were immigrants at one point. In addition, maybe you could go more in depth with the terms "star" and "grace" What specific religion is he alluding to? And does Neil Diamond reference a religion of his own in the song?
DeleteI agree with what you said about Diamond mentioning how the Christian religion serves as the foundation for America, and part of the “dream” that immigrants should seek. Although this is only specifically mentioned in the line, “make our bed and say our grace”, it purposefully stands out in the midst of the other lines talking about the immigration experience and patriotism. However, you did a good job not overthinking this line to be Diamond’s entire purpose, because he also includes ideas of freedom, patriotism, and leaving behind one’s culture as pathways to the American dream.
DeleteIn Neil Diamond's "America," language is utilized to portray America as an idealistic society. Throughout the song, the phrase "they're coming to America" is repeated, suggesting the allure of the country in the eyes of immigrants. To reflect the diversity in the American culture as well as the values of hope and resilience, language is used to appeal to the listener. "We huddle close, hang on to a dream" presents the American "dream" as a universal struggle, and "home, to a new and shiny place" represents the attainability of that dream. In constructing a song that is identifiable with the American people and illustrative of American ideologies, Neil Diamond presents the role of a socially conscious individual as someone who is patriotic and characteristic, thus molding the definition of the American dream into a post-modernist vision.
ReplyDeleteI really like how you tie this song with the characteristics of post-modernism, showing how the post modernist genre is more than a type of literature, it is a mindset. Your analysis also does a really great job of showing how post-modernism came to be, by highlighting the societal self awareness that was a hallmark of modernism, as well as the overwhelming positivity in Diamond's descriptions of America than was influenced by transcendentalism. This song truly is a perfect example of the post-modernist movement.
DeleteIn "Glory Days" Bruce Springsteen shows the consequences of letting failure define you through his use of foil characters. In Bruce's song he talks about two former classmates who dreams both failed for one reason or another and now to cope with those dreams they "just sit around talking about the old times" (1) Bruce uses the foil characters between himself and the former classmate of his that was a baseball player. Using foil characters contributed to Bruce's purpose because he is showing how when an individual sits "back trying to recapture a little of the glory of, well time slips away" (1) as the individual reminisces about the "glory days" and tries to bring back the past they don't move on and try to better themselves. Whereas Bruce accepted the reality of things and realized time went on and since he didn't linger on failed dreams he became successful. Bruce Springsteen is trying to communicate that America is holding itself back by lingering on failed dreams, denying the present and future, like during the Postmodernism individuals denied the protest era. Bruce is stressing the fact that American’s have to recognize what's going on around them and use that to create a better future for themselves thus creating a better society in America.
ReplyDeleteKelly Acevedo
DeleteMr. Saldivar
American Lit. Pd 5
05/13/14
Evelyn, I completely agree with your use of foil characters to explain Springsteen's purpose in the writing of this song. I also liked how you connected post modernism to the characters in the song. However, I would disagree with you on how Springsteen accepted the reality of it, since he talks about drinking his pain away and remembering the glory.
Adriana Amador
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
In the song,"The Great American Dream", by David Massengill there is the use of parallelism and allusions to expose the diverse underbelly of America, whom achieve the "American dream" through different means necessary. The song presents multiple, unorthodox characters by stating, "Excuse me sir..." which represents them asking for the attention of the stereotypical, successful, white American. This parallelism creates irony by insinuating the man they are speaking to has authority when in reality the immigrant, prostitute, carpenter, etc are the ones that make up a large part of the country and have power in numbers. The only reason that these people are not the first person to come to mind to audiences is because the way these people achieved the" American dream" was not through ideal terms. When the prostitute states, "Four score and seven tricks by the hour...", she is alluding to the Gettysburg Address, which was made by one of America's most respected presidents, Abraham Lincoln. This reference juxtaposes a respectable man with a not so respectable job, implying that the very foundation which the country was built on and the people who make up the country are not as perfect as the phrase "The great American dream" implies.
I completely agree. The subtle hints placed throughout the song definitely indicate that the only one benefiting from the "American Dream" are the white males of the population. It's almost funny how hypocritical American society can be. They build up this huge allure promising prosperity and opportunity for all and once people finally get here they do everything in their power to keep them in a position of servitude.
DeleteI completely agree with both of you. I feel like the white males are the ones to say all of this "accepting of the different cultures" just so they look better and make America look better because they no they are going to be the majority of people who actually benefit from it.
DeleteCarolina Vallin
ReplyDeleteThrough allusions and images, Bob Dylan uses "The Times Are A-Changing" to speak to the authority of the early 60s and advise them to let the younger people make changes because they are the conscious individuals aware of what is needed in their country. According to Dylan the "senators, congressmen" were barriers against the changing times; he depicts them as physical blockades that "stand in the doorway" to a different America. Dylan describes the traditional America as an "old road [that] is rapidly agin'", and he asks that people like the senators and congressmen not "criticize what [they] don't understand". In the story of Noah's ark, God sends a flood to wash away the impurities on the earth, and the only survivors are those that accept the new way God has proposed. In Bob Dylan's perspective, the "sons" and "daughters" will become the flood that will cause those who do not "admit that the waters around [them] have grown" to "sink like a stone", and be washed away with the current of changes. The changes being alluded to include a new time period in which African Americans were treated as equals, instead of being segregated, as well as a time where sons and daughters could choose to live a life beyond the perfect household, a prime reason for the Hippie Counter Culture Movement that grew the Civil Rights Movement and America's military intervention in Vietnam,
Carolina I completely agree with your explanation about the flood and the tides that are changing. The senators and congressman can also act as the authority figures, the ones who wield their power to put everything under control. The flood of new traditions and cultures are the ones that will be brought about by the sons and daughters, probably the new generation. Dylan does foreshadow an America who reshapes her old styles and laws to generate new ones that better fit the people living in the new time period.
DeleteIn Lila Downs' song, Pastures of Plenty, Downs uses imagery and irony to define Latino's role in American society and culture. Throughout the song, Downs' questions what it means to be an American and to be a part of the culture. She mocks someone questioning her, "when did you come to America" (Downs), but then proceeds to question the interrogator by saying "say you're American but what does that mean" (Downs). Downs is not attempting to argue with the Americans but she wants to know why others don't see Latinos as Americans too, therefore she begins questioning the standards of what it means to be an American. In the song, Downs uses one of America's own traditional songs to validate the fact that Latinos are also a part of American society, "this land is my land, and you land, and my land" (Downs). By claiming that the land is also "my land" Downs, automatically positions herself as part of a whole, part of the bigger American society which the land "belongs" too. Through the images created throughout the song, Lila portrays the hardships and struggles such as "a mighty long row that my poor hands have hoed, my poor feet have traveled a long dusty road" (Downs) that Latinos face. This imagery shows the standard work that the image of a Latino hold. Therefore, she is accepting the image and culture of Latinos but also wants others to accept them too. Downs attempts to show the Americans that Latinos work and strive for a better American society, yet they aren't considered a part of that society. This want of acceptance is part of the bigger picture of social consciousness which is where people are aware of their place in society. Latinos are aware that they are the working class, but wish to still be accepted as part of the society.
ReplyDeleteIn "The Great American Dream" by David Massengill, the stories of six individuals are told through a verse in the song, creating an interlocking and haunting tale of the suffering, triumphs, and desires of each "American." Each individual's desire seems to be a direct, inverted reaction to the condition of their lives. For example, a prostitute dealing in the "adult world" wishes to become a young girl again, and a coffin maker wishes to be cremated, independent in death from the items that he spends his life making. The characters become archetypes of American lives characterized by suffering, marginalization, and separation. However, Massengill uses an anaphora at the beginning of each stanza in order to show a similar thread that runs through every character's life. Each stanza begins with "Excuse me sir... I am a..." (Massengill) and goes on to describe the character's professions and dreams as if the character was directly communicating their own personal story. Even though each character states their own unique dream, Massengill's parallel syntax shows that the ultimate desire of each character is simply to have their story heard. With this revelation, Massengill shows that the "American Dream" is not a singular standard of living, but instead the combined suffering and hopefulness of Americans from different walks of life. Massengill acknowledges the incredibly diverse origins of the "American Experience," and speaks out against social separation between the groups that each archetype represents with the argument that all individuals are alike in their dreams.
ReplyDeleteYour literary analysis was really detailed and I can easily identify your context, analysis and evaluation paragraph. This song really contradicts the perfect "American Dream" and instead exposes the real life of Americans during the 1990's.Great job Jessica!
DeleteHector Salazar
ReplyDeleteMr. Saldivar
American Lit
5/13/14
In Lila Downs, Pastures of Plenty, Downs sings of the hardships of a Mexican Immigrant to the United States in order to bring to the attention of Americans that America is the land of opportunity for everyone and America is a country of immigrants. Lila Downs is widely known for retelling the stories of her ancestors, in the case of this song, it is the immigration of Mexican workers to work the farms in California and Oregon in the United States. The first several lines describe the different jobs the workers have taken in the Unites States, “I’ve worked on your orchards of peaches and prunes…I made all your crops…to harvest your hops” (Downs). This reflects that without Immigrants contributions to society, specifically the Mexican immigrants in this case, America could not thrive in the agricultural industries at the time in which the song takes place. Downs also calls the Americans out to discredit their claim of who is American and utilizing parallelism by continuously repeating “when did you come to America” within the piece (Downs). Also with the same use of parallelism, Downs says that America is ”my land, and your land, and my land” (Downs). She calls the Americans out once again, this time about the Americans value of ownership and materialism, but wants the American people to know that this land belong to everyone, “For my pastures of plenty must always be free” (Downs).
Hector! I completely agree with your interpretation. I really like how you added some context on the singer to help tie together why she wrote the piece. Nice work!
DeleteIn “Young American” by David Bowie, Bowie shows how America gives people the belief that America is all extravagance of the American dream but in the end this belief is fake, showing that the American dream is a fantasy, unattainable and fake. Throughout the song Bowie writes his verses describing the tough times for American citizens. Bowie writes about several failures of different lives in the song while juxtaposing these failures with the flashy American picture of Ford Mustangs and Barbie Dolls. This shows how America depicts itself as being a paradise to get rich and live in luxury which is all fake, when in reality America is full of poverty and sadness. Bowie asks the question “We live for just these twenty years Do we have to die for the fifty more?” (David Bowie) This shows how America is based off of the flashy youth experience of living the high life, but after youth people have no clue what to do with their lives because they were expecting the American Dream to be handed to them, and that in the end everything would end in luxury. Ultimately, Bowie’s song critiques America as having a shallow culture full of false hopes and expectations.
ReplyDeleteJason, I like your analysis of the juxtaposition in Bowie's song. Often times it seems like there is the preconceived notion that America is a wonderland where everyone can attain social and economic greatness but in reality it's quite the opposite.
DeleteI agree with you Jason, I like how you stated that Bowie's song critiques this false hope for the American Dream, since in the song he is showing how America is extravagant but then shuts that down by showing how it is actually full of sadness and shows the tough obstacles Americans have to face.
DeleteI really like your analysis of this song, and i agree with your ideas. I like when you say " America is based off of the flashy youth experience of living the high life, but after youth people have no clue what to do with their lives because they were expecting the American Dream to be handed to them". This is really meaningful and true to this day and i think it makes your analysis that much more meaningful.
DeleteBob Dylan’s song, “The Times They Are A-Changing” calls attention to the changes that’re occurring in the 1960s and warns Americans who hold on to traditional beliefs to adapt to these changes in order to find a place in the new world. When describing the calls for reform movements such as the civil rights movements, Dylan allude to the flood in the bible. He foreshadows that the movements will soon overpower those in control and the only way to “survive” is to accept the changes that the new century will bring about. His message to “writers and critics/ who prophesize with [their] pens” (Bob Dylan) tells them to observe, record, and publish without being biased towards the majority. Instead, he’s saying that “the loser now/ will be later to win” (Bob Dylan). Dylan uses this allusion to inform the press that even though the civil rights movements and reform movements are organized by minorities, they’ll be triumphant with their cries for change. The battle Dylan refers to in the third stanza talks about the Vietnam War and the opposition towards the war. He believes that the war, with its bloodiness covered up in propaganda, would be closer to home than they expected. The citizens’ voices can no longer be contained and the angers of individuals can no longer be suppressed by the politicians who hold most of the power. In the last two stanzas, he warns those who held on to old traditions that times are indeed changing and it’s way beyond the control of any group in power. The new generation can not be controlled by the old, the only way to live on in this new world is to embrace the changes that’re brought about. Dylan’s piece has abstract wordings which does not specifically refer to a set time period, but instead can be used in any if not all time periods calling for alterations. His imagery of “shake[ing] windows/ And rattle[ing] walls” (Dylan Bobs) shows the rebellious spirit or the Americans. His powerful lyrics not only conveys the message of acceptance and adaptation, but also for Americans to stand up and change the society that they’re living in for the better.
ReplyDeleteIn Neil Diamond's, "America", Diamond tells of the façade given to the United States through his constant mentions of the Christian faith. The song tells of the set journey that immigrants must follow to become "true Americans". Diamond wrote, "Make our bed and say our grace" (5), with this quote representing that to become a true American citizen you must conform to the popular religion. However, this is deceiving because many immigrants migrate to America for the fact that it allows for the creation and practice of your own beliefs. Diamond argues that you are stripped of your identity to fit the American standard. This therefore creates a false image of freedom and opportunity. Diamond is able to enhance his position through the use of metaphors to things such as the Statue of Liberty, which commonly represents freedom, and juxtaposition.
ReplyDeleteI really liked that you said "true Americans" , because I think it is very accurate. I also liked how you turned it around on Diamond/ the American dream because everyone always says people with different cultures and religions are free to come but yet they do not say they are all accepted.
DeleteTotally agree with you that many immigrants, immigrate to America for Freedom, since America is the land of freedom, but then are almost obligated to follow American believes defying the whole purpose of the American Dream.
DeleteIn "The Times They Are a-Changin'", Bob Dylan makes use of biblical allusions and parallelism in order to convey the idea that America needed to shift from its traditional Old World ideologies. He makes an allusion to Noah's Ark and God's great flood to illustrate the urgency of America's changing society. American's should "admit that the waters around you have grown" (Dylan 1) and accept social and political barriers that are present in society. It is the acceptance and adaptation to these changes in which an American can define his/her role as a socially conscious individual in the United States. Furthermore, Dylan attempts to disclose that challenging and adapting to social barriers will create a more progressive and prosperous America in which there is political and systematic inclusion.
ReplyDeleteMiles, I agree with your argument. I liked how you brought up the use of biblical text in this song. By alluding to the bible, Bob Dylan can further persuade the audience that they need to accept social and political barriers or else they will be left behind because the bible is such a strong text in American society. Good job!
DeleteIn "Glory Days" by Bruce Springsteen, Springsteen talks about two of his former class mates that used to triumph in their high school days but have become "failures" since they have failed to achieve their dreams. Springsteen talks about how they cope with their pain from the past by consuming alcohol and remembering the "Glory Days". Through the song the audience can capture the message that it is best to move on from the past and think about the future. Since Bruce's former classmates are stuck in their failed past they have failed to recognize their present opportunities therefore failing to overcome their failed past and make a better future. Essentially the message that Springsteen is trying to send is that Americans deals with their problems through substance abuse which leads them to a constant pattern of failure.
ReplyDeleteManuel; you both structured your paragraph and analyzed it well, but you could have made it even stronger by using more formal language. The message of Bruce Springsteen's song "Glory Days", is not focused on substance abuse and the subsequent failure's it may create, as in Always Running alcohol is only a means of escape for the characters in the song from the pain they feel. "Glory Days" juxtaposes youth and adulthood to demonstrate how experience forms an individual's character, in order to show the detrimental effects of allowing experience to define individual identity. There is duality about each person in the song. When Springsteen talks about his friend from his neighborhood he he describes her as a girl, but he states, "she put her kids to bed" (1). That girl Springsteen describes has children, shows that this is a woman not a girl, juxtaposing the innocence the woman retains from her childhood with her true adult age. The allusion to childhood innocence demonstrates the woman's refusal to accept the passage of time, and the desire to ignore the painful experiences and failures she has experienced as she has matured. Springsteen's friend who was a baseball player used to take care of his body in order to be a better pitcher, as he became an adult and lost his dream to pitch he spend more time, "at [a] roadside bar" (1). The baseball player felt at one point that it was important to take care of himself, but now he abuses his body with alcohol. Both of Springteen's friend's are undermining their present lives and consequently their future lives by not only themselves to grow from their experiences. The two friends each restrict their views of success to those they had in youth rather than allowing to expand as they become adults. This closed and selfish view of the world is detrimental to the individual within society, because only from experience can an individual gain the knowledge that will allow them to be effective and prosperous members of a society.
DeleteIn “Pastures of Plenty,” Lila Downs uses an old traditional song, imagery, a deep aggressive tone and provocative lyrics to reach down into the soul and mind while telling stories of her ancestors and her homeland in order to show how Latinos were objectified in the environment of the United States. Downs uses the lyrics of the old medley “This Land Is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie, to show how she acknowledges the fact that everyone should be accepted in the United States because they all live on the same land. Her use of imagery, “Dig the beets from the ground, pick the grapes from your vines,” is to prove herself American by showing the hardships she goes through to benefit America. This deep aggressive tone and provocative lyrics that Downs uses, shows her deep questionings of social standards of what it takes to be an American. The intense tone becomes greater when she asks “Say you're American but what does that mean… When did you(r) hands burn like coal,” saying that she has done more to benefit America yet is still marginalized. She speaks about “the dream for what we fought,” being that American dream that everyone wishes for. The dream that she is not allowed to share with “Americans.” She also expresses her patriotism when she says “And this land I'll defend with my life if need be,” this being ironic because more than half of the said “Americans” would not defend the country with their lives like she would. Downs defines the role of a socially conscious individual by clearly accepting her role in American society but expressing her thoughts to raise awareness as to how others can accept herself and other Latinos as being an American.
ReplyDeleteVictor Iturralde
ReplyDeleteMr. Saldivar
American Lit 8th
5.12.14
In “Changes” by 2Pac, Tupac Shakur speaks on the side of America in the late 1900s that any Americans ignore or are oblivious to, in order to raise awareness to this hidden America, in an attempt to either spark a revival among an African American audience in continuing to fight for equality. Tupac is well ahead of his fellow lyricists in the industry at the time, and is able to use the rise of hip-hop at the time to give his lyrics an audience that would otherwise not have existed. He had credibility among the majority of the African American community, since he spoke on the hardships and marginalization that many of them related to in one way or another. The rise of his music allows for Tupac to successfully raise awareness to the hardships and oppression among African Americans. In the opening lines of the song, Tupac says “ I see no changes, wake up in the morning and I ask myself: "Is life worth living? Should I blast myself?"”. Tupac sees no changes to the society that continues to deliberately oppress the African American Community, and is so sickened that he is forced to question the value of his own life as an African American. Tupac says later in the song “ its war on the streets and a war in the Middle east, instead of war on poverty”. Tupac is highlighting the hypocrisy of America’s government, who has the audacity to go out and fight a war overseas, when there are bigger problems right here in America. Tupac also alludes to Huey, saying, “`it’s time to fight back` that’s what Huey said, two shots in the dark, now Huey’s dead.”. This is meant to highlight the oppression of blacks, since those such as Huey Newton who founded the black panther organization were labeled as revolutionaries and shot dead. In a way, this nearly foreshadows Tupac’s assassination not too long after his own revolution through his music. Tupac uses his lyrical genius and musical credibility to gain attention of a large audience, and in doing so, effectively influence many people to stand up for themselves and start a revival for equality in an attempt to end discrimination against African Americans in the late 1900s that had been lingering since early American history.
Sophie Brooks
ReplyDeleteEnglish 2 pd 8
5/12/14
In “The Times They Are a Changin’,” Bob Dylan demonstrates ideas of change and acceptance through the use of repetition and an allusion. “The Times They Are a Changin’” refers to the evolution of American ideology in the 1960’s. Events such as the Vietnam War, The Civil Rights Movement, and the Hippie Counter Culture Movement brought about new ideas involving social and political recognition for the marginalized. However, with these new ideas, came contrasting ones from the previous and older generations. Dylan emphasizes the importance of accepting these people saying, “For he that gets hurt will be he who has stalled and blocked the hall” (Dylan 7, 8). In addition, Dylan alludes to Noah’s Arc and the Bible when God flooded away the sins of the world. He suggests, “Admit that the waters around you have grown,” and be accepting, or otherwise “you'll sink like a stone” (Dylan 3). With this, Dylan reiterates the ideas of postmodernism and the hopes of gaining validation socially and politically.
Lila Downs is a Mexican-American singer-songwriter and is commonly known "embracing and highlighting indigenous origins, whether in the U.S. or Mexico," and "topics of political and social justice, immigration, and transformation, all rooted in the human condition," are inspirations for her music. In her song "Pastures of Plenty", Downs calls out those who identify as true Americans on their sense of ownership and exclusion that came with their individuality and freedom in America. The song begins by acknowledging all the hard work that goes into cultivation, however strategically implies that there are only some working hard for others to reap the benefits as she sings "I've worked on your orchards," and also referring to other things such as the moon, hops, vines, etc. Though when singing about digging beets, Downs simply says "from the ground," rather than "your" ground implying that the ground, or America, belongs to no one or everyone. Later Downs includes two allusions to Christianity, the religion of which many aspects of American laws and values are based on, with "Who is the father and son and the we, Where is the spirit that sought liberty". Downs incorporates Christianity into her though-provoking question on why there is inequality among all those who do, or want to identify as American. By including the allusion, Downs' listeners are left to question whether or not they are living up to what their supposed "American values" which is the purpose for Downs writing the song.
ReplyDeleteWebsite that provides Lila Downs Information Below
http://www.liladowns.com/us/biography
Emmy,
DeleteI like how you went beyond the scope of the question and added allusions from the religion of Christianity, it makes your bias and opinion more powerful. However there are just a couple of grammatical errors otherwise your response is well written.
I agree with your analysis. Downs alludes to fundamental American values, and uses her experience as a foil character in her environment, to question its integrity. Singing "say you're American but what does that mean." Although, I think there's more to her purpose, she alluded to Mexican immigrant values as well, which is what she used to compare to American values.
DeleteThanks for the feedback Elizabeth, I agree with you, I was just trying to focus in more what I was saying.
DeleteIn the song "America", Neil Diamond` uses imagery and patriotic allusions to influence different people/cultures to come to America. As the song starts, the beat is slow but then becomes faster and more upbeat; therefore, representing the immigrants' journey to America and how much better America "sounds" rather than their homeland. According to Diamond, America is “a shiny new place where freedom's light burns warm" (5). At the end of the song he alludes to the patriotic song “my country ‘tis of thee sweet land of liberty” (Diamond 9). The song represents the freedom that Americans are envisioned with, and it also gives off a strong and proud patriotic vibe. Furthermore, it is very welcoming to people wanting to come to America and immigrants. This visualization of America that is represented, reflects the American dream of becoming free and following their dreams; thus, “having a dream to take them to America and never looking back” (Diamond 3). Therefore, this song further emphasizes the ideologies that Americans of the post-modernist era had.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your entire analysis. I agree that Diamond makes America seem like a great place to live and thus influencing people to move there. However, your analysis made me think of a new idea; I'm not disagreeing with you, I'm just stating a new idea that I have. You mention that America is made to "sound" better, and then you also mention that America is a "shiny new place" which makes America seem Gilded. It is possible that immigrants have made the U.S to sound better than it actually is.
DeleteIn "Glory Days" by Bruce Springsteen, Springsteen through the song shows how people’s lives are driven by their dreams and aspirations and when these dreams don’t end up going the way they want they dwell on the “glory days”. This is emphasized even more in the chorus which Springsteen repeats the lines “glory days well they'll pass you by, glory days in the wink of a young girl's eye” (Springsteen 10-11) showing how even though people tend to focus on the good times of the past their will be a moment of realization where they find out the past will not always be there and if you dwell on the “glory days” for two long life can pass you by. Springsteen also makes a point of showing how alcohol plays a large role or at least some sort of substance and clouds the pain of the people from their loss of the “glory days”. He uses the example of a former star baseball player played by him and a very pretty girl who all the girls loved when she was young to show that whenever they want to reminisce on those times they had as they drink at the bar “now I think I'm going down to the well tonight and I'm going to drink till I get my fill” (Springsteen 32-33). The descriptions Springsteen uses to describe the two characters of the story show a society in which people believe they are failures if they don’t end up being what they dreamed up in their “glory days” when really they should just follow their own path and accept what they are given in life. Know this language contributes to the songs purpose because Springsteen drives the idea of whenever people are frustrated with life they return to the “glory days” which should be something we snap out of as a society because all that does is bring us down and depresses us instead of us continuing un pursuit of new attainable dreams that may build up to are original dream or a whole new one. The main point is to not dwell on past successes but look to the future and what new success you can attain.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really good response, and its so true, all of these songs and novels allude and talk about the past but not the future.
DeleteIn “America” Neil Diamond uses language to show unity among the American people. He describes an immigrant’s journey to the United States in the song when he says ”Only want to be free..We huddle close..Hang on to a dream” (Diamond 1). All of the immigrants have the common goal of achieving an amazing dream in the United States, which creates unity among them. This immigrant journey also defines the role of a socially conscious individual in the United States because it implies that an American should be a dedicated and hard-working person that is mesmerized by their goals, even if it means living with one dream, like Gatsby. Moreover, Diamond uses symbolism to profess the American Dream. Again referencing to an immigrant journey, Diamond says ”We’ve been traveling far..Without a home..But not without a star” (Diamond 1), in which the star symbolizes a dream of goal that the newcomers are chasing. This contributes to the song’s purpose because it shows how all Americans started out as immigrants with nothing but a dream, which shows that Americans are idealists. Diamond also alludes to Christianity and Judaism when he says ”Home..To a new and a shiny place..Make our bed and we’ll say our grace” (Diamond 1), which shows conformity among the immigrants. No other religious or cultural options are given or alluded to in this song, hinting that there are only two acceptable cultures in America. Neil Diamond’s “America” shows that Americans confuse unity with conformity, which suppresses the idealistic values they once stood for.
ReplyDeleteIn “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen, he utilizes foil characters to express how an individual’s failure can pave their future. Springsteen talks of how his friend who played baseball never lived up to the expectations that he wanted to. Based on this, the foil character now mourns over his misfortunes and thinks of the “Glory Days” (Springsteen 1) whenever he or the other foil character feels sad and wants to remember when life went the way they wanted it. Springsteen uses these foil characters for a purpose to juxtapose their life choices with the choices that he makes in life. The foil characters live in the past and can not get over that one failure, which makes them unable to live in the present. In correlation, Springsteen was into baseball as his friend was but when he did not make it to where he wanted to, he gets over this and any other misfortunes that he may encounter and moves ahead with life. The difference between Springsteen and the foil characters is that he did not let this misfortune define the rest of his life as he knows that “time slips away and leaves you with nothing boring stories of glory days” (Springsteen 1).
ReplyDeleteGreat responce. The use of foil characters and juxtapositions you pointed out was very interesting and the analysis is good, although i feel like you should expand more on the idea of how Springsteen foils the other character to add more depth to your arguement.
Delete"Changes" by Tupac displays the segregation between blacks and whites that were still presented during the late 1990s. Tupac states, "Cops give a damn about a negro? Pull the trigger, kill a nigga, he's a hero" (Tupac 1). In this quote, it is clear that blacks at the time were thought of the bad guys and there was a lot of injustice towards blacks. Tupac states, "And only time we chill is when we kill each other," here Tupac is referring to the whites and how they never seem to get along. Tupac repeats over and over again that there needs to be changes and stays hopeful that in the future there would not be separation between communities. Tupac in all is heard through his songs and helps influence the Black Community to stay strong and helps bring awareness to the injustice towards blacks.
ReplyDeleteIn 1994, America was facing high Mexican immigration. That year, the U.S. tightened the Mexican/U.S. border and cut back on benefits to immigrants. These actions suggest immigrants weren’t worthy of the American status and consequently citizens enforced these ideas. Later, in the “Pastures of Plenty” by Mexican immigrant, Lila Downs, Downs combats the social barrier between immigrants and citizens while maintaining her role as a socially conscious individual. Downs questions the integrity of American values. She sings “when did you come to America the free” (Downs). Downs emphasizes the fact that America was founded on immigrants from Europe. Ironically, this land of the “free” keeps immigrants’ out- even if those were the people who created America initially. Mexican immigrants “came to build… roads... cities... and… thoughts” (Downs). Mexican immigrants are constructing post-industrial America, not hurting it. Downs suggests the treatment of immigrants by the U.S. isn’t justified, rather disproved. Her purpose of reforming immigrant treatment becomes clear when she victimizes them. America’s superiority cannot exclude non-citizens from the land that “is [their] land and [Down’s] land” (Downs). Lila views her pasture optimistically in a negative environment. The role of the socially conscious is to openly question the integrity of the political, systematic, and structural policies around them.
ReplyDeleteKelly Acevedo
ReplyDeleteMr. Saldivar
American Lit. Pd. 5
05/13/14
In Bruce Springsteen's 1984 hit song, "Glory Days", Springsteen sings about the failures of the people he knew. Two of his friends from high school had dreams to become someone big and famous, but were not able to accomplish them due to obstacles along the way. In return, they "just sit around talking about the old times" while drinking their pain away: "we went back inside,sat down had a few drinks". According to Springsteen, once the American Dream of people fade, they have no option but to cope with their failure; and do so by drinking. "Glory days well they'll pass you by Glory days, in the wink of a young girl's eye": is a metaphor in which Springsteen acknowledges that he is aware of how the American Dream can fail quickly. He is trying to get people to see how it is okay for them to dream, but that they must do so by having their feet planted firmly on the ground, so that when it ends, they won't feel the blow.
In the song "The Great American Dream" by David Massengill, the use of allusions and parallelism creates a portrait of those who want to achieve the American Dream, but are having a hard time doing so with the circumstances that they are in. Throughout the song, there are different people with different backgrounds who explain their situation and what they are looking for in the American Dream. The parallelism in this song such as "it is my dream... to be" and "It's the Great American Dream" is used to define the people looking to achieve the American Dream and the extents that they are willing to go through to get it. It is also used to strengthen the idea that there are more than one definitions of the American Dream- but they all have one thing in common: Freedom. Freedom from their past lives and the ability to go on and improve their own lives and families. Massengill also uses allusions to help define the people searching for their American Dream. One of the allusions used was the Jekyll and Hyde reference: "I'm the good thief of Jekyll and Hyde". By using allusions from early literature, Massengill can relate his lyrics to those who are trying to achieve the American Dream for themselves.
ReplyDeleteInteresting idea Steven! I like how you pointed out the importance of the allusion to Jekyll and Hyde which was used to be able to relate to many other people shooting for this'american dream' as well as the importance of the use of parallelism. Explaining how these two elements are important really show how this song has a deeper meaning to it and the specific tools the writer used to connect to the audience.
DeleteLila Downs in Pastures of Plenty, uses imagery in order to raise social consciousness on the Latino struggle in achieving the American Dream to validate herself as an American. Downs begins by using imagery in portraying the working conditions of Latinos in America. “Dig the beets from the ground, pick the grapes from your vines/ To set on your table your light sparkling wine” (Downs). Downs is portraying that unlike the “Americans” for the Latinos it is not the same. The Americans consume while the Latinos produce in order to achieve their dream. Downs validates herself as an American since her and the Latinos have contributed to America. ”When did you hands burn like coal” (Downs). She questions their contribution and the difference between her and the “Americans” not to start a riot but for them to become self conscious of the conditions.
ReplyDeleteHow is Lila Downs using this to validate herself as an American? Downs does show that Mexican immigrants' contributions to society greatly helped the agricultural industry but I believe that she does so to bring attention to the Mexican immigrants and how they work in America, a country of immigrants. I do not see how she does this to validate herself as American as it is not clear in your response.
DeleteIn “American”, by Neil Diamond, the branch in post-modernism about extending traditions applies to his song addressing immigration. He portrays America as a promise land open to immigrants, but expects these new cultures to conform to old religious and patriotic ideals. Diamond shows his acceptance for immigrants in the line “Home, To a new and shiny place” (5). He does not hold back on calling his own home a place that people from other cultures will soon happily share too. However, Diamond gives subtle allusions to long-lasting Christian morals like “Make our bed and say our grace” (5) that he assumes immigrants will follow when they come to America. The line, “We’ve been travelling far… but not without a star” (Diamond 1) alludes to a star in the Bible that was followed to find a desired place. Diamond tells immigrants that they are able to reach the “American Dream” through a religious pathway. The last part of the song, “My country, ‘tis of thee…” (Diamond 9) alludes to an old patriotic song from 1831 that stresses America’s greatness. He wants to influence immigrants with this old pride, while they “Never look back again” (Diamond 3) at the homes they just left. Diamond demonstrates his attempt at being inclusive of new cultures and ideas, but contradicts this through his subtle hints at assimilating immigrants to old virtues of America’s founding fathers.
ReplyDeleteIn the song, ‘Young American’ by David Bowie, the idea of an ‘american dream’ is brought to the the audience’s attention but later revealing how this dream is an unobtainable expectation. Throughout the song, he speaks about this idea Americans have about life. They seem to continue to fantasize until the age of 20 and as soon as they hit 20, their dream is unreachable and impossible or “We live for just these twenty years/Do we have to die for the fifty more?” As soon as they hit adulthood, this ‘dream’ that was once thought of is no longer attainable.The creation of happiness and hope is made but later realized, by Americans how they only fantasized. There is this common thing amongst America that it was only a dream. Achieving this dream is the disconcerting reality that few people will attain this tantalizing vision of success. Coming from a foreigner’s view, Bowie reveals to the audience how America portrays itself as a rich, wealthy, and stable place, but the truth is America is failure. According to David Bowie this ‘american dream’ America sets up for people all around the world is full of failure and unreachable goals giving this hidden sense of false hope to Americans.
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly enjoyed your response, however I would have elaborated more on how David Bowie, being an immigrant viewed America. He came here with the same expectations as all immigrants and that America is the land of opportunity.
Delete_Brennan
In David Massengill’s “The Great American Dream”, six people tell their stories and what it has led them to dream. The foreigner describes how he left his country to come to America and later says “It is my dream… to be a citizen” (Massengill). His story of coming to America shows why his dream is to be an American citizen. Massengill uses an anaphora at the beginning of each person’s story to keep something similar between each individual. Each individual begins by saying “Excuse me sir… I am a” (Massengill) and then give their story and what it has led them to dream. Even though they all start their stories the same, they all end with a different dream. Massengill’s use of anaphora shows that all of the individuals want their story to be heard. Massengill shows that the American Dream is not the same for everyone and acknowledges the diversity in people and their dreams. Though, he also tries to bring everyone together by saying they all want to be heard and have dreams of their own.
ReplyDeleteIn the song “Pastures of Plenty”, Lila Downs’s use of language displays the exclusion of Latino immigrants in America despite the contributions of Latino Americans in shaping the land and culture of America. Downs criticizes the Americans, asking “when did your hands burn like coal/the thing that made this land your pride and your joy” (19-20), scrutinizing America’s achievements through the hard work of others, namely immigrant workers, while she continues to be marginalized. “I came to build your roads your cities and your thoughts/you say you don’t need me, but you know what you’ve got” (Downs 23-24); through the repetition of the words “you” and “your”, Downs conveys the importance of ownership in America and the exclusion of immigrants regardless of their part in shaping America. Downs brings attention to the importance of the idea that American land belongs to all Americans and the acknowledgement of immigrants as Americans.
ReplyDeleteI like where you're going with this however your claim or initial thought is somewhat vague. Also Downs is not quite criticizing, but more shedding light on the fact that everyone is trying or has tried at some point to work for the right to identify as American, though many, primarily immigrants have struggled to identify because of discrimination and hypocrisy. There is also a disconnect in your analysis of Downs' use of "yours".
DeleteYoung Americans by David Bowie is told from the point of view of an Englishman that moved to America. As such, Bowie was not enculturated into American society so he saw the American dream for what it is, a fantasy. The theme of the “young American” refers to the dream young Americans have, a dream they have until they turn 20. “We live for just these twenty years
ReplyDeleteDo we have to die for the fifty more?" (Bowie). The first 20 years of the American life, people are allowed to dream. After 20, Americans have to grow up and face reality and as a result they spend the rest of their life “wanting the young American” (Bowie). As a foreigner, Bowie perceives the American dream as unattainable, a false hope Americans create for their futures.
Brennan Quinn
ReplyDeleteIn David Bowie's "Young Americans," the American Dream is revealed and conveyed as a false prophet. Bowie sings about the American life and how the American Dream becomes a fantasy once you become twenty years old. In the post modernism American world that Bowie was writing in at the time, it was too often that people got a job at twenty years old and died with the same job at seventy. Through this statement, he further emphasizes his belief that the American Dream, for many at least, is just a hoax. Bowie also states how America is viewed from an outside perspective. Bowie, born and raised in Britain, came to America with the expectation of many immigrants. This expectation is that America is the most lavish and wonderful place on earth, "The Land of Opportunity," however it is the contrary. Many immigrants come here and experience the same failures as they did in their old country and die trying the achieve the American Dream.
In Neil Diamond's "America" Diamond alludes to immigrant's aspirations to "Never looking back again" by never looking back and reflecting where they once were all that remains is to look forward to the opportunities America has in store for them. Neil Diamond's America represents a theme of patriotism and portraying America as a utopia for immigrants. "We huddle close/Hang on to a dream" suggests unity between born Americans and Immigrants and that both groups desire the "dream". " Ev'ry time that flag's unfurled,they're coming to America" the flag represents
ReplyDeleteAmerica opening itself to immigrants, which creates a Postmodernism idea of extending cultural diversity.
Bruce Springsteen uses foil characters in his song “Glory Days” to portray his message of failure, time, and change. He tells us the stories of two classmates, a man and a woman,they both had the stereotypical American dream for the time yet they could not keep up with how time changes the surroundings around you that eventually will affect you personally. In this case time and change caused the failure of their dreams. To cope with the failure of their dreams they “sit around talking about the old times” (1). We particularly see the foil characters come into play with the baseball player and Springsteen himself thus contributing to the portrayal of Springsteen's purpose of "Glory Days" which was to show how by coping with "trying to recapture a little of the glory [days]"(1) that "time slips away" (1) thus holding yourself back instead of bettering yourself. While on the other hand Springsteen isn't "trying to recapture a little of the glory [days]" (1) but rather moves on from his failures and successes allowing him to become even more successful. This relates to how America is being held back because America can not accept change such as all the change happening in the post-modernism protest era. In order for America to become more successful we must stop "trying to recapture a little of the glory days" (1) and rather move on and embrace the change.
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