"La-Di-Da-Di-Da"

The song "Sixteen Military Wives" was written by the Decemberists for their third album, Picaresque, in 2005, during the decline of the Iraq War's popularity. The band's lyrics are known to comment on historical incidents, which is reflected in this song as well. Colin Meloy, songwriter, personally characterized this song as a protest song.

What exactly is the song attempting to protest? What kind of metaphors are made in order to back up that point? Do you feel like this song is an accurate portrayal of the American condition? What is the significance of the video from 3:00-3:18?

The lyrics are available here.

[post composed by Blog Group 5]

"All too often"

This video is largely about the uncertainty of early pregnancy and the difficult decision of whether or not to go through with abortion. As Americans, we are constantly faced with decisions that are affected by financial strains and this video blends the stress of hardships and responsibility quite well. Due to the intense subject covered in this video finding topics to speak of for this week’s blog should not be too difficult.

Although this video by J. Cole doesn’t have explicit images of American flags and patriotic themes, there is a message delivered that very much affects many young people in the U.S. today. With pressures to hold a roof over everyone’s heads in today’s economic hardships, the issue of abortion today just might be stronger today than it has in the past.

Do you think the level of unemployment today will have an impact on others regarding the issue of abortion and unplanned pregnancy? Are there any instance you can think of that might lead to considering abortion? Is there anything in this video in particular that jumps out at you implicitly or explicitly as an American identity?

[post composed by Blog Group 4]