Robert Southworth
Poetry of Song
Ms. Malone
May 8, 2009
Song Analysis 3
“Bartender”
The rocking music group called Dave Matthews Band has continuously released chart topping tracks that have them now famous worldwide. Founded at a small bar in Virginia, lead singer Dave Matthews took off with the idea of recorded some songs he wrote with his friends. Little did he know, those songs would lead them to numerous Grammy awards and much more. One of their songs not as well knew, “Bartender”, as powerful lyrics that demonstrate regret. Dave Matthew’s “Bartender” contains regret and poetic devices in the lyrics.
“Bartender” by Dave Matthews Band is a very emotional song that evolves an older man thoughts on dying. The narrator is sitting at a bar, depressed, and talking to anyone who will listen. The bartender engages the man in a conversation in which the man begins talking about his views on dying and his final wishes. As the narrator continues his talk, many religious references become apparent. The mentioning of God, the devil, and possibly heaven and hell all appear in the lyrics to “Bartender.” The narrator blames the devil for provided the “grapes” for the alcohol he consumes, which he believes will kill him. Suddenly, the elderly man drops to his knees and prays to God to protect him. An interesting lyrical aspect occurs as the song progresses. It seems the death of the man gets closer and closer as the music becomes faster. The narrator begins to pray more often and the tone of the narrator becomes more desperate. “Bartender” is a very complex song that involves many interesting parts.
Regret appears numerous times throughout Dave Matthew’s Bands “Bartender.” The elderly man begins to regret his relationships with his siblings throughout the song. This is expressed through the lyric “Oh brother of mine, please don’t forget me if I go.” The narrator displays some evidence that he and his brother were not that close. The sister also appears in the lyrics, in which the narrator asks her to “not regret me if I die.” The narrator may have done something to hurt his sister in order for him to feel this way.
Regret is displayed often in “Bartender.”
Some poetic devices are also found within the lyrics of “Bartender.” An example of alliteration occurs in the lyrics “sweet sister of mine.” The words “sweet” and “sister” both share the common sound of the letter “s”. An example of personification occurs later in the song. The lyrics “The wine that’s drinking me” is an example of personification because wine does not inhabit the human action of drinking. Another poetic device used in “Bartender” is anadiplosis. The lyrics “When I was young, I didn’t think about it
Now I just can’t get it off my mind” are an example of repetition. The lyrics continue the idea of death as a dream throughout the song. Poetic devices help to enhance lyrics and the song’s deeper meaning. Overall, Dave Matthews Band did a great job composing the lyrics to “Bartender.”
Dave Matthews Band has continuously produced songs that fully relate to the listener. Their music fully appreciates and communicates with their followers of the bands. The song “Bartender” fully demonstrates the theme of regret and denial. The poetic devices that are used by Dave Matthews help enhance the song and its meaning. The narrator of the song is obviously thinking that his time to depart this world is soon and he wants to say his final wishes. Dave Matthews Band once again proves their lyrical genius in the great rock song of “Bartender.”
Bartender
And if I go, before I’m old
Oh brother of mine, please don’t forget me if I go
And if I die, before my time
Oh sweet sister of mine, do not regret me if I die
Bartender, please fill my glass for me
With the wine you gave jesus
That set him free after three days down
Bartender, please fill my glass deep for me
With the wine you gave jesus
That set him free after three days down
On bended knees, I pray, bartender please
On bended knees, God please
Oh, and if this gold, should steal my soul away
Oh mother of mine, please redirect me if this gold...
Bartender, please fill one up for me
Of the kind you gave jesus
That set him free after three days down
On bended knees, I pray, bartender please
On bended knees, bartender please
[the newer version, from summer 2000]
If I go
Before I’m old
Oh, brother of mine
Please don’t forget me if I go
Bartender, please
Fill my glass for me
With the wine you gave jesus that set him free
After three days in the ground
Oh, and if I die
Before my time
Oh, sweet sister of mine
Please don’t regret me if I die
Bartender, please
Fill my glass for me
With the wine you gave jesus that set him free
After three days in the ground
Bartender, please
Fill my glass for me
With the wine you gave jesus that set him free
After three days in the ground
I’m on bended knees, I pray
Bartender, please
When I was young, I didn’t think about it
Now I just can’t get it off my mind
I’m on bended knees
Father, please
If all this gold
Should steal my soul away
Oh, dear mother of mine
Please redirect me if this gold...
Bartender, you see
The wine that’s drinking me
Came from the vine that strung judas from the devil’s tree
It’s roots deep, deep in the ground
Bartender, you see
The wine that’s drinking me
Came from the vine that strung judas from the devil’s tree
It’s roots deep, deep in the ground
In the ground...
I’m on bended knees
Oh, bartender, please
I’m on bended knees
Father, please
When I was young, I didn’t dream about it
Now I think about it all the time
I’m on bended knees
Oh, bartender, please
Bartender, please
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Creative Project
Type of project-Short Story
Song- "Photograph" by Nickelback
Look at this photograph
Every time I do it makes me laugh
How did our eyes get so red?
And what the hell is on Joey's head?
And this is where I grew up
I think the present owner fixed it up
I never knew we'd ever went without
The second floor is hard for sneaking out
And this is where I went to school
Most of the time had better things to do
Criminal record says I've broke in twice
I must have done it half a dozen times
I wonder if it's too late
Should I go back and try to graduate?
Life's better now than it was back then
If I was them I wouldn't let me in
Oh oh oh
Oh God I
Every memory of looking out the back door
I have the photo album spread out on my bedroom floor
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Every memory of walking out the front door
I found the photo of the friend that I was looking for
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Goodbye
Remember the old arcade?
Blew every dollar that we ever made
The cops hated us hanging out
They said somebody went and burned it down
We used to listen to the radio
And sing along with every song we know
We said someday we'd find out how if feels
To sing to more than just the steering wheel
Kim's the first girl I kissed
I was so nervous that I nearly missed
She's had a couple of kids since then
I haven't seen her since God knows when
Oh oh oh
Oh God I
Every memory of looking out the back door
I have the photo album spread out on my bedroom floor
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Every memory of walking out the front door
I found the photo of the friend that I was looking for
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
I miss that town
I miss their faces
You can't erase
You can't replace it
I miss it now
I can't believe it
So hard to stay
Too hard to leave it
If I could I relive those days
I know the one thing that would never change
Every memory of looking out the back door
I have the photo album spread out on my bedroom floor
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Every memory of walking out the front door
I found the photo of the friend that I was looking for
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Look at this photograph
Every time I do it makes me laugh
Every time I do it makes me
Song- "Photograph" by Nickelback
Look at this photograph
Every time I do it makes me laugh
How did our eyes get so red?
And what the hell is on Joey's head?
And this is where I grew up
I think the present owner fixed it up
I never knew we'd ever went without
The second floor is hard for sneaking out
And this is where I went to school
Most of the time had better things to do
Criminal record says I've broke in twice
I must have done it half a dozen times
I wonder if it's too late
Should I go back and try to graduate?
Life's better now than it was back then
If I was them I wouldn't let me in
Oh oh oh
Oh God I
Every memory of looking out the back door
I have the photo album spread out on my bedroom floor
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Every memory of walking out the front door
I found the photo of the friend that I was looking for
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Goodbye
Remember the old arcade?
Blew every dollar that we ever made
The cops hated us hanging out
They said somebody went and burned it down
We used to listen to the radio
And sing along with every song we know
We said someday we'd find out how if feels
To sing to more than just the steering wheel
Kim's the first girl I kissed
I was so nervous that I nearly missed
She's had a couple of kids since then
I haven't seen her since God knows when
Oh oh oh
Oh God I
Every memory of looking out the back door
I have the photo album spread out on my bedroom floor
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Every memory of walking out the front door
I found the photo of the friend that I was looking for
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
I miss that town
I miss their faces
You can't erase
You can't replace it
I miss it now
I can't believe it
So hard to stay
Too hard to leave it
If I could I relive those days
I know the one thing that would never change
Every memory of looking out the back door
I have the photo album spread out on my bedroom floor
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Every memory of walking out the front door
I found the photo of the friend that I was looking for
It's hard to say it, time to say it
Goodbye, goodbye
Look at this photograph
Every time I do it makes me laugh
Every time I do it makes me
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Social/Political Messages
"Adam's Song" Blink 182
"Adam's Song", written by Blink 182, is an extremely powerful song that delivers a social message to everyone. The song expresses the moods of depression and sadness and their consequences if not dealt with. "Adams Song" lyrics are suppose to resemble a suicide note written by someone having suicidal thoughts. The relevance of the lyrics are suppose to show that people need help after tragedies if they are showing the signs of suicide. The lyrics "You'll be sorry when I'm gone" strike with so much pain. Blink 182 "Adam's Song" does a good job displaying the strong message of suicide.
I never thought I'd die alone
I laughed the loudest who'd have known
I traced the cord back to the wall
No wonder it was never plugged in at all
I took my time, I hurried up
The choice was mine, I didn't think enough
I'm too depressed, to go on
You'll be sorry when I'm gone
I never conquered, rarely came
16 just held such better days
Days when I still felt alive
We couldn't wait to get outside
The world was wide, too late to try
The tour was over we'd survived
I couldn't wait till I got home
To pass the time in my room alone
I never thought I'd die alone
Another six months I'll be unknown
Give all my things to all my friends
You'll never set foot in my room again
You'll close it off, board it up
Remember the time that I spilled the cup
Of apple juice in the hall
Please tell mom this is not her fault
I never conquered, rarely came
16 just held such better days
Days when I still felt alive
We couldn't wait to get outside
The world was wide, too late to try
The tour was over we'd survived
I couldn't wait till I got home
To pass the time in my room alone
I never conquered, rarely came
Tomorrow holds such better days
Days when I can still feel alive
When I can't wait to get outside
The world is wide, the time goes by
The tour is over, I'd survived
I can't wait till I get home
To pass the time in my room alone
"If Everyone Cared" Nickelback
One of Nickelback's most influential work, "If Everyone Cared" is a great song that sends a deep social message. The song tries to displays most of the worlds issues from genocide to global warming. The relevance of the song is to show everyone how much we take for granted. If you take any problem and plug it into the lyrics, the lyrics relate perfectly. The lyrics "And as we lie beneath the stars
We realize how small we are" demonstrate the ideology of humans today. We are only a small piece in the middle of a humongous puzzle. If we continue to act the same way and keep up the same ways of living, we may dissapear. Nickelback does a great job displaying the social message of today's modern society.
From underneath the trees, we watch the sky
Confusing stars for satellites
I never dreamed that you'd be mine
But here we are, we're here tonight
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
[Chorus:]
If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
Then we'd see the day when nobody died
And I'm singing
Amen I, Amen I, I'm alive
Amen I, Amen I, Amen I, I'm alive
And in the air the fireflies
Our only light in paradise
We'll show the world they were wrong
And teach them all to sing along
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
(I'm alive)
[Chorus x2]
And as we lie beneath the stars
We realize how small we are
If they could love like you and me
Imagine what the world could be
If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
Then we'd see the day when nobody died
When nobody died...
[Chorus]
We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day when nobody died
"Adam's Song", written by Blink 182, is an extremely powerful song that delivers a social message to everyone. The song expresses the moods of depression and sadness and their consequences if not dealt with. "Adams Song" lyrics are suppose to resemble a suicide note written by someone having suicidal thoughts. The relevance of the lyrics are suppose to show that people need help after tragedies if they are showing the signs of suicide. The lyrics "You'll be sorry when I'm gone" strike with so much pain. Blink 182 "Adam's Song" does a good job displaying the strong message of suicide.
I never thought I'd die alone
I laughed the loudest who'd have known
I traced the cord back to the wall
No wonder it was never plugged in at all
I took my time, I hurried up
The choice was mine, I didn't think enough
I'm too depressed, to go on
You'll be sorry when I'm gone
I never conquered, rarely came
16 just held such better days
Days when I still felt alive
We couldn't wait to get outside
The world was wide, too late to try
The tour was over we'd survived
I couldn't wait till I got home
To pass the time in my room alone
I never thought I'd die alone
Another six months I'll be unknown
Give all my things to all my friends
You'll never set foot in my room again
You'll close it off, board it up
Remember the time that I spilled the cup
Of apple juice in the hall
Please tell mom this is not her fault
I never conquered, rarely came
16 just held such better days
Days when I still felt alive
We couldn't wait to get outside
The world was wide, too late to try
The tour was over we'd survived
I couldn't wait till I got home
To pass the time in my room alone
I never conquered, rarely came
Tomorrow holds such better days
Days when I can still feel alive
When I can't wait to get outside
The world is wide, the time goes by
The tour is over, I'd survived
I can't wait till I get home
To pass the time in my room alone
"If Everyone Cared" Nickelback
One of Nickelback's most influential work, "If Everyone Cared" is a great song that sends a deep social message. The song tries to displays most of the worlds issues from genocide to global warming. The relevance of the song is to show everyone how much we take for granted. If you take any problem and plug it into the lyrics, the lyrics relate perfectly. The lyrics "And as we lie beneath the stars
We realize how small we are" demonstrate the ideology of humans today. We are only a small piece in the middle of a humongous puzzle. If we continue to act the same way and keep up the same ways of living, we may dissapear. Nickelback does a great job displaying the social message of today's modern society.
From underneath the trees, we watch the sky
Confusing stars for satellites
I never dreamed that you'd be mine
But here we are, we're here tonight
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
[Chorus:]
If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
Then we'd see the day when nobody died
And I'm singing
Amen I, Amen I, I'm alive
Amen I, Amen I, Amen I, I'm alive
And in the air the fireflies
Our only light in paradise
We'll show the world they were wrong
And teach them all to sing along
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
Singing Amen, I, I'm alive
(I'm alive)
[Chorus x2]
And as we lie beneath the stars
We realize how small we are
If they could love like you and me
Imagine what the world could be
If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
Then we'd see the day when nobody died
When nobody died...
[Chorus]
We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day when nobody died
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Imagery Song
"Breaking the Habit"
-Linkin Park
Linkin Park's "Breaking the Habit" is not one the most recognized from the band. The song meaning derives from the narrator, who is regretting a past action that he now wants to break free from. Some imagery is present in the song. The lyrics "I'm picking me apart again" is an example of imagery. The sense of touch is used in the specific lyric. Another example of imagery is found in the lyric "Clutching my cure." This also is a use of the sense touch. Linkin Park continuously uses the poetic device of imagery in their songs, including "Breaking the Habit."
Memories consume
Like opening the wound
I'm picking me apart again
You all assume
I'm safe here in my room
Unless I try to start again
[Bridge:]
I don't want to be the one
The battles always choose
'Cause inside I realize
That I'm the one confused
[Chorus:]
I don't know what's worth fighting for
Or why I have to scream
I don't know why I instigate
And say what I don't mean
I don't know how I got this way
I know it's not alright
So I'm breaking the habit
I'm breaking the habit
Tonight
Clutching my cure
I tightly lock the door
I try to catch my breath again
I hurt much more
Than anytime before
I had no options left again
[Bridge:]
I dont want to be the one
The battles always choose
'Cause inside I realize
That I'm the one confused
[Chorus:]
I don't know what's worth fighting for
Or why I have to scream
I don't know why I instigate
And say what I don't mean
I don't know how I got this way
I'll never be alright
So, I'm breaking the habit
I'm breaking the habit
Tonight
[Bridge:]
I'll paint it on the walls
'Cause I'm the one at fault
I'll never fight again
And this is how it ends
[Chorus:]
I don't know what's worth fighting for
Or why I have to scream
But now I have some clarity
to show you what I mean
I don't know how I got this way
I'll never be alright
So, I'm breaking the habit
I'm breaking the habit
I’m breaking the habit
Tonight
"Iris"
-Goo Goo Dolls
"Iris", written by the Goo Goo Dolls, is one of the most well known love rock songs ever wrote. Imagery is present everywhere in "Iris." The first line, "And I'd give up forever to touch you" is an example of imagery. The sense that is used in the lyric is touch. An example of the taste sense shows up in the lyric, "And all I can taste is this moment." The lyric "Cause I know that you feel me somehow" is also an example of touch. The Goo Goo Dolls have mastered the concept of imagery in their songs, which makes it easier from the listener relate to the song.
And I'd give up forever to touch you
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now
Verse 2
And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
Cause sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight
Chorus
And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
Verse 3
And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming
Or the moment of truth in your lies
When everything seems like the movies
Yeah you bleed just to know your alive
Chorus
And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
Chorus
I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
-Linkin Park
Linkin Park's "Breaking the Habit" is not one the most recognized from the band. The song meaning derives from the narrator, who is regretting a past action that he now wants to break free from. Some imagery is present in the song. The lyrics "I'm picking me apart again" is an example of imagery. The sense of touch is used in the specific lyric. Another example of imagery is found in the lyric "Clutching my cure." This also is a use of the sense touch. Linkin Park continuously uses the poetic device of imagery in their songs, including "Breaking the Habit."
Memories consume
Like opening the wound
I'm picking me apart again
You all assume
I'm safe here in my room
Unless I try to start again
[Bridge:]
I don't want to be the one
The battles always choose
'Cause inside I realize
That I'm the one confused
[Chorus:]
I don't know what's worth fighting for
Or why I have to scream
I don't know why I instigate
And say what I don't mean
I don't know how I got this way
I know it's not alright
So I'm breaking the habit
I'm breaking the habit
Tonight
Clutching my cure
I tightly lock the door
I try to catch my breath again
I hurt much more
Than anytime before
I had no options left again
[Bridge:]
I dont want to be the one
The battles always choose
'Cause inside I realize
That I'm the one confused
[Chorus:]
I don't know what's worth fighting for
Or why I have to scream
I don't know why I instigate
And say what I don't mean
I don't know how I got this way
I'll never be alright
So, I'm breaking the habit
I'm breaking the habit
Tonight
[Bridge:]
I'll paint it on the walls
'Cause I'm the one at fault
I'll never fight again
And this is how it ends
[Chorus:]
I don't know what's worth fighting for
Or why I have to scream
But now I have some clarity
to show you what I mean
I don't know how I got this way
I'll never be alright
So, I'm breaking the habit
I'm breaking the habit
I’m breaking the habit
Tonight
"Iris"
-Goo Goo Dolls
"Iris", written by the Goo Goo Dolls, is one of the most well known love rock songs ever wrote. Imagery is present everywhere in "Iris." The first line, "And I'd give up forever to touch you" is an example of imagery. The sense that is used in the lyric is touch. An example of the taste sense shows up in the lyric, "And all I can taste is this moment." The lyric "Cause I know that you feel me somehow" is also an example of touch. The Goo Goo Dolls have mastered the concept of imagery in their songs, which makes it easier from the listener relate to the song.
And I'd give up forever to touch you
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now
Verse 2
And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
Cause sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight
Chorus
And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
Verse 3
And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming
Or the moment of truth in your lies
When everything seems like the movies
Yeah you bleed just to know your alive
Chorus
And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
Chorus
I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Song Analysis 2
“Sorry” by Buckcherry
With Grammy nominations and numerous musical awards, Buckcherry has been one of the most recognized bands in the past decade. Founded in 1995, the band broke up after drugs and solo projects sidetracked the musicians. Buckcherry released their most successful album, 15, in 2006 after founder Josh Todd reunited the band in 2005 to produce a final album, but no one anticipated its success. Tracks from the album have had success in the United States, manly on the Billboard Top 100 charts. Buckcherry, in the past, has toured with mega rock stars Motley Crue, Papa Roach, and Avenged Sevenfold.
Buckcherry has been known in the past for their hard rocking songs that have sold thousands of copies. However, one of their latest songs entitled “Sorry” does not follow the same direction the band is used to. The slow and regretful love song written from lead singer Josh Todd’s heartache speaks to many couples. The overall meaning of the song deals with the regret and forgiveness the narrator feels for his loved one in their relationship. The identity could possibly be a girlfriend or a parental figure who has known the narrator in the past. The line “while I was away” indicates that the narrator has recently been separated from the one they feel regretful for. “Sorry” is written beautifully and greatly displays the theme of regret.
Regret is apparent in almost every line of Buckcherry’s “Sorry.” A main example of the narrator’s regret is with the continuously use of the lyric “I’m sorry.” The repetitive use emphasizes the narrator’s sincere apology, and overall enhances the song. The narrator is regretful for his absence in the relationship and his actions. There is also evidence that the relationship was abusive. “I’m sorry you’re blue” could refer to the bruises that have been caused by assault. The narrator also takes responsibility for his actions by stating “I think I’m to blame.” The honesty and remorse the narrator displays shows his true character and regret.
Poetic devices are found within the lyrics of “Sorry.” Anadiplosis is present in the lyrics “I'm sorry I'm bad, I'm sorry you're blue, I'm sorry about all things I said to you” The use of the same idea, the narrators regret, at the beginning of consecutive lines qualifies these lyrics as anadiplosis. The use of anadiplosis reinforces the thought of regret in the listeners mind. Rhyme is found in numerous places throughout the lyrics. One example of rhyme in “Sorry” is the lyric “I love all your sounds, and baby the way you make my world go round.” The repetitive use of the same sounds helps the listener to remember the song and create a catchy tune. Poetic devices help to enhance the musical lyrics used in songs.
The songs victim can be interpreted in many ways, each with its own scenario. If in fact the sufferer is a girlfriend, the narrator is sorry for his recent abusive relationship. He blames himself for the troubled times and takes responsibility for the pain he has caused her. The song can also be seen as the narrator and a parental figure. He may now be sorry for his childhood or a recent action that has caused pain to the family. The narrator now wants to apologize for his actions and try to re-heal. A third interpretation of
With Grammy nominations and numerous musical awards, Buckcherry has been one of the most recognized bands in the past decade. Founded in 1995, the band broke up after drugs and solo projects sidetracked the musicians. Buckcherry released their most successful album, 15, in 2006 after founder Josh Todd reunited the band in 2005 to produce a final album, but no one anticipated its success. Tracks from the album have had success in the United States, manly on the Billboard Top 100 charts. Buckcherry, in the past, has toured with mega rock stars Motley Crue, Papa Roach, and Avenged Sevenfold.
Buckcherry has been known in the past for their hard rocking songs that have sold thousands of copies. However, one of their latest songs entitled “Sorry” does not follow the same direction the band is used to. The slow and regretful love song written from lead singer Josh Todd’s heartache speaks to many couples. The overall meaning of the song deals with the regret and forgiveness the narrator feels for his loved one in their relationship. The identity could possibly be a girlfriend or a parental figure who has known the narrator in the past. The line “while I was away” indicates that the narrator has recently been separated from the one they feel regretful for. “Sorry” is written beautifully and greatly displays the theme of regret.
Regret is apparent in almost every line of Buckcherry’s “Sorry.” A main example of the narrator’s regret is with the continuously use of the lyric “I’m sorry.” The repetitive use emphasizes the narrator’s sincere apology, and overall enhances the song. The narrator is regretful for his absence in the relationship and his actions. There is also evidence that the relationship was abusive. “I’m sorry you’re blue” could refer to the bruises that have been caused by assault. The narrator also takes responsibility for his actions by stating “I think I’m to blame.” The honesty and remorse the narrator displays shows his true character and regret.
Poetic devices are found within the lyrics of “Sorry.” Anadiplosis is present in the lyrics “I'm sorry I'm bad, I'm sorry you're blue, I'm sorry about all things I said to you” The use of the same idea, the narrators regret, at the beginning of consecutive lines qualifies these lyrics as anadiplosis. The use of anadiplosis reinforces the thought of regret in the listeners mind. Rhyme is found in numerous places throughout the lyrics. One example of rhyme in “Sorry” is the lyric “I love all your sounds, and baby the way you make my world go round.” The repetitive use of the same sounds helps the listener to remember the song and create a catchy tune. Poetic devices help to enhance the musical lyrics used in songs.
The songs victim can be interpreted in many ways, each with its own scenario. If in fact the sufferer is a girlfriend, the narrator is sorry for his recent abusive relationship. He blames himself for the troubled times and takes responsibility for the pain he has caused her. The song can also be seen as the narrator and a parental figure. He may now be sorry for his childhood or a recent action that has caused pain to the family. The narrator now wants to apologize for his actions and try to re-heal. A third interpretation of
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Found Poem
Found Poem
“Sorry” Buckcherry, “Jump” Simple Plan, “One” U2, “Scars” Papa Roach
Is it getting better?
I dont wanna wake up today
I tried to help you once
So I offered you my hand
Forget your problems
You got someone to blame
With this one life
I’m sorry
“Sorry” Buckcherry, “Jump” Simple Plan, “One” U2, “Scars” Papa Roach
Is it getting better?
I dont wanna wake up today
I tried to help you once
So I offered you my hand
Forget your problems
You got someone to blame
With this one life
I’m sorry
Monday, March 9, 2009
Repetition
*Example of Anaphora
"Shoulda" by Hinder
Hinder's "Shoulda" is a great example of a song that contains anaphora. The repetition of the word "shoulda" enhances the song. The narrator repeats himself numerous times to get the point across that he is very regretful for his past behavior. Their is a very interesting lyric found in the song. The line "I'd say those three words" could be interpreted in many ways. To me, those three words are "I love you." The narrator is full of regret and wishes he "coulda" and "shoulda" done things better either in a past relationship or to a parent.
Before I hung up the phone all I could hear
Was the dial tone ring in my ear
If I could go back in time
I'd say those three words
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
And this can't be saved if you can't be found
You hung up and left me for dead on the ground
You didn't even say goodbye
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
Now that you're gone I'm wasting away
The life has been siphoned right out of my veins
If I could go back in time
I'd say those three words
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
And this can't be saved if you can't be found
You hung up and left me for dead on the ground
You didn't even say goodbye
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
When you said those three words
I kinda freaked out
When you said them first my jaw hit the ground
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
And this can't be saved if you can't be found
You hung up and left me for dead on the ground
You didn't even say goodbye
And this can't be saved
And this can't be saved
If you can't be found
If you can't be found
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
*Example of Anadiplosis
"Jump" Simple Plan
Jump!
The song "Jump!" contains the repetition enhancer of anadiplosis. The continuation of the singer's topic of "sick" qualifies this song as having anadiplosis. The lyrics "I'm sick of this town, Sick of my job, Sick of my friends,'cause everyones jaded, Sick of this place" are examples of anadiplosis. The repetition enhances the song because it stresses the point of how the narrator has had enough. The narrator is regretful and has had an epiphany of how he has done nothing with his life. The narrator is "frustrated" of his current lifestyle and wants to "break free."
I dont wanna wake up today
Cause everyday's the same
And I'd been waiting so long
For things to change
I'm sick of this town
Sick of my job
Sick of my friends 'cause everyone's jaded
Sick of this place, I wanna break free
I'm so frustrated, I just wanna
Jump! (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about tomorrow (Jump!)
I just don't care tonight
I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about my sorrow
Let's go
Forget your problems
I just wanna jump
I don't wanna wake up one day
And find out it's too late
To do all the things I wanna do
So I'm gonna pack up my bags
I'm never coming back
'Cause the years are passing by
And I'm wasting all my ti-ti-time
Sick of this house
Sick of being broke
Sick of this town, that's bringing me down
I'm sick of this place, I wanna break free,
I'm so frustrated, I just wanna jump
Jump! (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about tomorrow (Jump!)
I just don't care tonight,
I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about my sorrow
Let's go
Forget your problems
I just wanna jump
I just wanna jump
I can't take it anymore [x3]
Forget tomorrow, I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about tomorrow (Jump!)
I just don't care tonight,
I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about my sorrow
Let's go
Forget your problems
It's time to let them go
Forget tomorrow, I just wanna jump (Jump!)
I just wanna jump
"Shoulda" by Hinder
Hinder's "Shoulda" is a great example of a song that contains anaphora. The repetition of the word "shoulda" enhances the song. The narrator repeats himself numerous times to get the point across that he is very regretful for his past behavior. Their is a very interesting lyric found in the song. The line "I'd say those three words" could be interpreted in many ways. To me, those three words are "I love you." The narrator is full of regret and wishes he "coulda" and "shoulda" done things better either in a past relationship or to a parent.
Before I hung up the phone all I could hear
Was the dial tone ring in my ear
If I could go back in time
I'd say those three words
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
And this can't be saved if you can't be found
You hung up and left me for dead on the ground
You didn't even say goodbye
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
Now that you're gone I'm wasting away
The life has been siphoned right out of my veins
If I could go back in time
I'd say those three words
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
And this can't be saved if you can't be found
You hung up and left me for dead on the ground
You didn't even say goodbye
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
When you said those three words
I kinda freaked out
When you said them first my jaw hit the ground
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
And this can't be saved if you can't be found
You hung up and left me for dead on the ground
You didn't even say goodbye
And this can't be saved
And this can't be saved
If you can't be found
If you can't be found
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
I shoulda woulda coulda said it back to you
*Example of Anadiplosis
"Jump" Simple Plan
Jump!
The song "Jump!" contains the repetition enhancer of anadiplosis. The continuation of the singer's topic of "sick" qualifies this song as having anadiplosis. The lyrics "I'm sick of this town, Sick of my job, Sick of my friends,'cause everyones jaded, Sick of this place" are examples of anadiplosis. The repetition enhances the song because it stresses the point of how the narrator has had enough. The narrator is regretful and has had an epiphany of how he has done nothing with his life. The narrator is "frustrated" of his current lifestyle and wants to "break free."
I dont wanna wake up today
Cause everyday's the same
And I'd been waiting so long
For things to change
I'm sick of this town
Sick of my job
Sick of my friends 'cause everyone's jaded
Sick of this place, I wanna break free
I'm so frustrated, I just wanna
Jump! (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about tomorrow (Jump!)
I just don't care tonight
I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about my sorrow
Let's go
Forget your problems
I just wanna jump
I don't wanna wake up one day
And find out it's too late
To do all the things I wanna do
So I'm gonna pack up my bags
I'm never coming back
'Cause the years are passing by
And I'm wasting all my ti-ti-time
Sick of this house
Sick of being broke
Sick of this town, that's bringing me down
I'm sick of this place, I wanna break free,
I'm so frustrated, I just wanna jump
Jump! (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about tomorrow (Jump!)
I just don't care tonight,
I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about my sorrow
Let's go
Forget your problems
I just wanna jump
I just wanna jump
I can't take it anymore [x3]
Forget tomorrow, I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about tomorrow (Jump!)
I just don't care tonight,
I just wanna jump (Jump!)
Don't wanna think about my sorrow
Let's go
Forget your problems
It's time to let them go
Forget tomorrow, I just wanna jump (Jump!)
I just wanna jump
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Metaphors
"One" U2
U2's "One" is a powerful song that contains a metaphor. The lyric "Love is a Temple" compares the unrelated objects of love to a temple. The song deals with the recent breakup of the narrator and his/her lover. The sex of the narrator is never determined within the lyrics. The speaker in the song is visited by "the one" they broke up with. The narrator asks if he/she has come to apologize for their mistakes, or to continue their arguments. The narrator feels regretful for his actions by asking "Did I disappoint you", "Did I ask too much." However, the two have not arrived at a point where they can work it out and become the "one" united as a couple. "Will it make it easier on you now, You got someone to blame" shows that the two are full of resentment still. U2's "One" is a great song that exemplifies regret.
Is it getting better
Or do you feel the same
Will it make it easier on you now
You got someone to blame
You say...
One love
One life
When it's one need
In the night
One love
We get to share it
Leaves you baby if you
Don't care for it
Did I disappoint you
Or leave a bad taste in your mouth
You act like you never had love
And you want me to go without
Well it's...
Too late
Tonight
To drag the past out into the light
We're one, but we're not the same
We get to
Carry each other
Carry each other
One...
Have you come here for forgiveness
Have you come to raise the dead
Have you come here to play Jesus
To the lepers in your head
Did I ask too much
More than a lot
You gave me nothing
Now it's all I got
We're one
But we're not the same
Well we
Hurt each other
Then we do it again
You say
Love is a temple
Love a higher law
Love is a temple
Love the higher law
You ask me to enter
But then you make me crawl
And I can't be holding on
To what you got
When all you got is hurt
One love
One blood
One life
You got to do what you should
One life
With each other
Sisters
Brothers
One life
But we're not the same
We get to
Carry each other
Carry each other
One...life
One
"I'll Be There For You" Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi's songs have repeatedly topped the charts for their dominant lyrics that inspire. "I'll Be There For You" is a perfect love song that displays a man's love for the woman he worships. The narrator asks her for a second chance after he regrets his decision of leaving her alone and on her own. The song is full of metaphors left and right. The lyrics are set in the first person, so the narrator refers to himself as "I". He continuously states the things that he will now perform for the one he loves. An example of a task is that he will "be the wine" when she gets drunk, to show how close he would like the relationship to be. Regret is found everywhere in Bon Jovi's lyrics of "I'll Be There For You."
I guess this time youre really leaving
I heard your suitcase say goodbye
And as my broken heart lies bleeding
You say true love in suicide
You say youre cried a thousand rivers
And now youre swimming for the shore
You left me drowning in my tears
And you wont save me anymore
Now Im praying to God youll give me one more chance, girl
Ill be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
Ill be there for you
Id live and Id die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words cant say what a love can do
Ill be there for you
I know you know were had some good times
How they have their own hiding place
I can promise you tomorrow
But I cant buy back yesterday
And baby you know my hands are dirty
But I wanted to be your valentine
Ill be the water when you get thirsty, baby
When you get drink, Ill be the wine
Ill be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
Ill be there for you
Id live and Id die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words cant say what a love can do
Ill be there for you
Solo
And I want there when you were happy
I wasnt there when you were down
I didnt mean to miss your birthday, baby
I wish Id seen you blow those candles out
Ill be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
Ill be there for you
Id live and Id die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words cant say what a love can do
Ill be there for you
U2's "One" is a powerful song that contains a metaphor. The lyric "Love is a Temple" compares the unrelated objects of love to a temple. The song deals with the recent breakup of the narrator and his/her lover. The sex of the narrator is never determined within the lyrics. The speaker in the song is visited by "the one" they broke up with. The narrator asks if he/she has come to apologize for their mistakes, or to continue their arguments. The narrator feels regretful for his actions by asking "Did I disappoint you", "Did I ask too much." However, the two have not arrived at a point where they can work it out and become the "one" united as a couple. "Will it make it easier on you now, You got someone to blame" shows that the two are full of resentment still. U2's "One" is a great song that exemplifies regret.
Is it getting better
Or do you feel the same
Will it make it easier on you now
You got someone to blame
You say...
One love
One life
When it's one need
In the night
One love
We get to share it
Leaves you baby if you
Don't care for it
Did I disappoint you
Or leave a bad taste in your mouth
You act like you never had love
And you want me to go without
Well it's...
Too late
Tonight
To drag the past out into the light
We're one, but we're not the same
We get to
Carry each other
Carry each other
One...
Have you come here for forgiveness
Have you come to raise the dead
Have you come here to play Jesus
To the lepers in your head
Did I ask too much
More than a lot
You gave me nothing
Now it's all I got
We're one
But we're not the same
Well we
Hurt each other
Then we do it again
You say
Love is a temple
Love a higher law
Love is a temple
Love the higher law
You ask me to enter
But then you make me crawl
And I can't be holding on
To what you got
When all you got is hurt
One love
One blood
One life
You got to do what you should
One life
With each other
Sisters
Brothers
One life
But we're not the same
We get to
Carry each other
Carry each other
One...life
One
"I'll Be There For You" Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi's songs have repeatedly topped the charts for their dominant lyrics that inspire. "I'll Be There For You" is a perfect love song that displays a man's love for the woman he worships. The narrator asks her for a second chance after he regrets his decision of leaving her alone and on her own. The song is full of metaphors left and right. The lyrics are set in the first person, so the narrator refers to himself as "I". He continuously states the things that he will now perform for the one he loves. An example of a task is that he will "be the wine" when she gets drunk, to show how close he would like the relationship to be. Regret is found everywhere in Bon Jovi's lyrics of "I'll Be There For You."
I guess this time youre really leaving
I heard your suitcase say goodbye
And as my broken heart lies bleeding
You say true love in suicide
You say youre cried a thousand rivers
And now youre swimming for the shore
You left me drowning in my tears
And you wont save me anymore
Now Im praying to God youll give me one more chance, girl
Ill be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
Ill be there for you
Id live and Id die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words cant say what a love can do
Ill be there for you
I know you know were had some good times
How they have their own hiding place
I can promise you tomorrow
But I cant buy back yesterday
And baby you know my hands are dirty
But I wanted to be your valentine
Ill be the water when you get thirsty, baby
When you get drink, Ill be the wine
Ill be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
Ill be there for you
Id live and Id die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words cant say what a love can do
Ill be there for you
Solo
And I want there when you were happy
I wasnt there when you were down
I didnt mean to miss your birthday, baby
I wish Id seen you blow those candles out
Ill be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
Ill be there for you
Id live and Id die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words cant say what a love can do
Ill be there for you
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Simile
Bob Seger's "Against the Wind" is a sorrow song that is full of regret, and also has a simile. The lyric "Caught like a wildfire out of control" is used to describe the relationship between the narrator and a girlfriend. The sad song tells the story of the narrators life after his leaves the one he loves. He spends the days as a hitchhiker running away from the pain and continuously searching for shelter. The narrator regrets the decision to desert his loved one, and is now facing the reality that he is worth nothing. He simplys moves "against the wind."
It seems like yesterday
But it was long ago
Janey was lovely, she was the queen of my nights
There in the darkness with the radio playlng low
And the secrets that we shared
The mountains that we moved
Caught like a wildfire out of control
Till there was nothing left to burn and nothing left to prove
And I remember what she said to me
How she swore that it never would end
I remember how she held me oh so tight
Wish I didnt know now what I didnt know then
Against the wind
We were runnin against the wind
We were young and strong, we were runnin
Against the wind
And the years rolled slowly past
And I found myself alone
Surrounded bv stranners I thought were my friends
I found myself further and further from my home
And I guess I lost my way
There were oh so many roads
I was living to run and running to live
Never worried about paying or even how much I owed
Moving eight miles a minute for months at a time
Breaking all of the rules that would bend
I began to find myself searchin
Searching for shelter again and again
Against the wind
A little something against the wind
I found myself seeking shelter against the wind
Well those drifters days are past me now
Ive got so much more to think about
Deadlines and commitments
What to leave in, what to leave out
Against the wind
Im still runnin against the wind
Well Im older now and still
Bon Jovi's "Keep the Faith" is one of his best written pieces of lyrics. The religious lyrics make it seem that the now who is apoligizing to for his actions which he regrets is God. The song does contain a simile in the second stanza. The lyric "I am broken like an arrow" can either refer to the mental, physical, or emotional spirit that the narrator is in. The line "I have suffered for my anger" can possibly give hint to the fact that the action committed was due to the narrator's temper. This song is full of regret that the narrator is trying to apoligized for by going to his God.
Mother mother tell your children
That their time has just begun
I have suffered for my anger
There are wars that cant be won
Father father please believe me
I am laying down my guns
I am broken like an arrow
Forgive me
Forgive your wayward son
Everybody needs somebody to love
(mother, mother)
Everybody needs somebody to hate
(please believe me)
Everybodys *********
cause they cant get enough
And its hard to hold on
When theres no one to lean on
Faith: you know youre gonna live thru the rain
Lord you got to keep the faith
Faith: dont let your love turn to hate
Right now we got to
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Lord we got to keep the faith
Tell me baby when I hurt you
Do you keep it all inside
Do you tell me alls forgiven
And just hide behind your pride
Everybody needs somebody to love
(mother, father)
Everybody needs somebody to hate
(please dont leave me)
Everybodys bleeding
cause the times are tough
Well its hard to be strong
When theres no one to dream on
Faith: you know youre gonna live thru the rain
Lord you got to keep the faith
Now you know is not too late
Oh you got to keep the faith
Faith: dont let your love turn to hate
Right now we got to
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Lord we got to keep the faith
Walking in the footsteps
Of societys lies
I dont like what I see no more
Sometimes I wish that I was blind
Sometimes I wait forever
To stand out in the rain
So no one sees me cryin
Trying to wash away the pain
Mother father
Theres things Ive done I cant erase
Every night we fall from grace
Its hard with the world in yours face
Trying to hold on, trying to hold on
Faith: you know youre gonna live thru the rain
Lord you got to keep the faith
Faith: dont let your love turn to hate
Right now we got to keep the faith
Faith: now its not too late
Try to hold on, trying to hold on
Keep the faith
It seems like yesterday
But it was long ago
Janey was lovely, she was the queen of my nights
There in the darkness with the radio playlng low
And the secrets that we shared
The mountains that we moved
Caught like a wildfire out of control
Till there was nothing left to burn and nothing left to prove
And I remember what she said to me
How she swore that it never would end
I remember how she held me oh so tight
Wish I didnt know now what I didnt know then
Against the wind
We were runnin against the wind
We were young and strong, we were runnin
Against the wind
And the years rolled slowly past
And I found myself alone
Surrounded bv stranners I thought were my friends
I found myself further and further from my home
And I guess I lost my way
There were oh so many roads
I was living to run and running to live
Never worried about paying or even how much I owed
Moving eight miles a minute for months at a time
Breaking all of the rules that would bend
I began to find myself searchin
Searching for shelter again and again
Against the wind
A little something against the wind
I found myself seeking shelter against the wind
Well those drifters days are past me now
Ive got so much more to think about
Deadlines and commitments
What to leave in, what to leave out
Against the wind
Im still runnin against the wind
Well Im older now and still
Bon Jovi's "Keep the Faith" is one of his best written pieces of lyrics. The religious lyrics make it seem that the now who is apoligizing to for his actions which he regrets is God. The song does contain a simile in the second stanza. The lyric "I am broken like an arrow" can either refer to the mental, physical, or emotional spirit that the narrator is in. The line "I have suffered for my anger" can possibly give hint to the fact that the action committed was due to the narrator's temper. This song is full of regret that the narrator is trying to apoligized for by going to his God.
Mother mother tell your children
That their time has just begun
I have suffered for my anger
There are wars that cant be won
Father father please believe me
I am laying down my guns
I am broken like an arrow
Forgive me
Forgive your wayward son
Everybody needs somebody to love
(mother, mother)
Everybody needs somebody to hate
(please believe me)
Everybodys *********
cause they cant get enough
And its hard to hold on
When theres no one to lean on
Faith: you know youre gonna live thru the rain
Lord you got to keep the faith
Faith: dont let your love turn to hate
Right now we got to
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Lord we got to keep the faith
Tell me baby when I hurt you
Do you keep it all inside
Do you tell me alls forgiven
And just hide behind your pride
Everybody needs somebody to love
(mother, father)
Everybody needs somebody to hate
(please dont leave me)
Everybodys bleeding
cause the times are tough
Well its hard to be strong
When theres no one to dream on
Faith: you know youre gonna live thru the rain
Lord you got to keep the faith
Now you know is not too late
Oh you got to keep the faith
Faith: dont let your love turn to hate
Right now we got to
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Keep the faith
Lord we got to keep the faith
Walking in the footsteps
Of societys lies
I dont like what I see no more
Sometimes I wish that I was blind
Sometimes I wait forever
To stand out in the rain
So no one sees me cryin
Trying to wash away the pain
Mother father
Theres things Ive done I cant erase
Every night we fall from grace
Its hard with the world in yours face
Trying to hold on, trying to hold on
Faith: you know youre gonna live thru the rain
Lord you got to keep the faith
Faith: dont let your love turn to hate
Right now we got to keep the faith
Faith: now its not too late
Try to hold on, trying to hold on
Keep the faith
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Linkin Park "Leave Out All The Rest"
Linkin Park, “Leave Out All the Rest”
Linkin Park has been known as a hardcore rock band that has produced chart topping songs; and their “Leave Out All the Rest” is no exception. The song can be interpreted in a few ways, but ultimately have the same meaning. The narrator experiences an epiphany that the ones he is leaving behind, a girlfriend, friend, or parent, etc. will not accept him for who he really was. He feels guilty about what he has done, and needs to make amends with those he has hurt. The line, “Forget the wrong that I’ve done,” shows the narrator wants to be remembered as a good person, and is asking for forgiveness. The narrator has tried to show he has become a new person by “taken my beating, I’ve shared what I’ve made,” and is apologizing for his actions. Many questions are left unanswered in the song “Leave Out All the Rest” such as who he is talking to and what he has done. Linkin Park’s powerful song about regret and guilt can relate too many who have experienced the same pain. Many poetic devices and messages are displayed with in “Leave Out All the Rest.”
“Leave Out All the Rest” features many poetic devices within the lyrics. Linkin Park does a great job using the devices to enhance the lyrics and meaning of the song. The first two verses of the narrative song contain rhyme in the lyrics to improve the flow of the music. The song also includes many tercets and quatrains to keep the brevity of the music while displaying the message. Foreshadowing is also apparent within the beat of the music. Before each chorus in the song, the beat of a drum is sounded. At the first chorus, the drummer beats two notes. The second time the chorus appears only one drum beat is heard, until the last chorus where no beats are drummed. The drum beating resembles a countdown to “when the time comes” for the narrator to die. “Leave Out All the Rest” was beautiful written, and the devices used by Linkin Park truly improved the intensity and power behind the lyrics.
The main theme of regret is present everywhere in Linkin Park’s “Leave Out All the Rest.” The protagonist of the song is constantly regretting his decision and actions against the one he has hurt. The chorus of the song expresses the narrator’s plea for the victim to forgive him, and see him as decent human once again. The narrator continues to regret his choices, and only wants the respect of those he has inflicted pain. His decisions have also made him experience some consequences of his actions. “I’ve taken my beating, I’ve shared what I made” are examples of how the narrator has suffered from his own judgment. The presence of regret in “Leave Out All the Rest” increases the effect of the lyrics on the listener.
“Leave Out All the Rest” can be interpreted in various ways. The key component of the song is who the narrator is speaking to. The listener of the song must decide whether the victim is a girlfriend, or someone closer such as a parental figure. If a girlfriend, the lyrics apply to the idea that he cheated on her, or left her to survive on her own. He now wants to apologize for being a jerk, and try to repair there relationship. The other interpretation is that the mother or father is the one who was hurt. The narrator may have done something to disappoint them, or go against their values and the teachings. Another interpretation within the song that does not relate to the victim is whether or not the narrator will die. Some evidence that supports this idea is “when my times comes”, and also the countdown that appears with the drum beats. Overall, “Leave Out All the Rest” is a great piece of music that displays the musical qualities of the Grammy Award winning band of Linkin Park.
"Leave Out All The Rest"
I dreamed I was missing
You were so scared
But no one would listen
Cause no one else cared
After my dreaming
I woke with this fear
What am I leaving
When I'm done here
So if you're asking me
I want you to know
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
And don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
[End Chorus]
Don't be afraid
I've taken my beating
I've shared what I made
I'm strong on the surface
Not all the way through
I've never been perfect
But neither have you
So if you're asking me
I want you to know
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
Don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
[End Chorus]
Forgetting
All the hurt inside
You've learned to hide so well
Pretending
Someone else can come and save me from myself
I can't be who you are
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
Don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
Forgetting
All the hurt inside
You've learned to hide so well
Pretending
Someone else can come and save me from myself
I can't be who you are
I can't be who you are
Linkin Park has been known as a hardcore rock band that has produced chart topping songs; and their “Leave Out All the Rest” is no exception. The song can be interpreted in a few ways, but ultimately have the same meaning. The narrator experiences an epiphany that the ones he is leaving behind, a girlfriend, friend, or parent, etc. will not accept him for who he really was. He feels guilty about what he has done, and needs to make amends with those he has hurt. The line, “Forget the wrong that I’ve done,” shows the narrator wants to be remembered as a good person, and is asking for forgiveness. The narrator has tried to show he has become a new person by “taken my beating, I’ve shared what I’ve made,” and is apologizing for his actions. Many questions are left unanswered in the song “Leave Out All the Rest” such as who he is talking to and what he has done. Linkin Park’s powerful song about regret and guilt can relate too many who have experienced the same pain. Many poetic devices and messages are displayed with in “Leave Out All the Rest.”
“Leave Out All the Rest” features many poetic devices within the lyrics. Linkin Park does a great job using the devices to enhance the lyrics and meaning of the song. The first two verses of the narrative song contain rhyme in the lyrics to improve the flow of the music. The song also includes many tercets and quatrains to keep the brevity of the music while displaying the message. Foreshadowing is also apparent within the beat of the music. Before each chorus in the song, the beat of a drum is sounded. At the first chorus, the drummer beats two notes. The second time the chorus appears only one drum beat is heard, until the last chorus where no beats are drummed. The drum beating resembles a countdown to “when the time comes” for the narrator to die. “Leave Out All the Rest” was beautiful written, and the devices used by Linkin Park truly improved the intensity and power behind the lyrics.
The main theme of regret is present everywhere in Linkin Park’s “Leave Out All the Rest.” The protagonist of the song is constantly regretting his decision and actions against the one he has hurt. The chorus of the song expresses the narrator’s plea for the victim to forgive him, and see him as decent human once again. The narrator continues to regret his choices, and only wants the respect of those he has inflicted pain. His decisions have also made him experience some consequences of his actions. “I’ve taken my beating, I’ve shared what I made” are examples of how the narrator has suffered from his own judgment. The presence of regret in “Leave Out All the Rest” increases the effect of the lyrics on the listener.
“Leave Out All the Rest” can be interpreted in various ways. The key component of the song is who the narrator is speaking to. The listener of the song must decide whether the victim is a girlfriend, or someone closer such as a parental figure. If a girlfriend, the lyrics apply to the idea that he cheated on her, or left her to survive on her own. He now wants to apologize for being a jerk, and try to repair there relationship. The other interpretation is that the mother or father is the one who was hurt. The narrator may have done something to disappoint them, or go against their values and the teachings. Another interpretation within the song that does not relate to the victim is whether or not the narrator will die. Some evidence that supports this idea is “when my times comes”, and also the countdown that appears with the drum beats. Overall, “Leave Out All the Rest” is a great piece of music that displays the musical qualities of the Grammy Award winning band of Linkin Park.
"Leave Out All The Rest"
I dreamed I was missing
You were so scared
But no one would listen
Cause no one else cared
After my dreaming
I woke with this fear
What am I leaving
When I'm done here
So if you're asking me
I want you to know
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
And don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
[End Chorus]
Don't be afraid
I've taken my beating
I've shared what I made
I'm strong on the surface
Not all the way through
I've never been perfect
But neither have you
So if you're asking me
I want you to know
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
Don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
[End Chorus]
Forgetting
All the hurt inside
You've learned to hide so well
Pretending
Someone else can come and save me from myself
I can't be who you are
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
Don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
Forgetting
All the hurt inside
You've learned to hide so well
Pretending
Someone else can come and save me from myself
I can't be who you are
I can't be who you are
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Narrative Song
Nickelback's "Someone that you're with" is a great example of a narrative song for Regret in Rock & Roll
Nickelback's "Someone that you're with" displays regret in the lyrics. The subject of the song has recently been attracted to a woman who has moved in next to him. He is hesitant to ask the girl out, and is ultimately too late because the the neighbor has a boyfriend. The subject shows much regret that he had not talked or asked out the woman. He is so paranoid over the issue that he listens to hear at what time the woman arrives back home in the middle of the night. The subject is very interested in the woman, listening to her music and also thinking about her every move. Regret is a music theme in "Someone that you're with", and the song can relate to many love-struck individuals.
Lyrics:
"Someone That You're With"
I reside in 209, you're in 208
You moved in last Friday night,
and I just couldn't wait
So I tried to call across the hall,
to ask you out someday
But a lineup formed outside your door, and I was way too late
[CHORUS]
Well I'd rather start off slow
This whole thing's like
some sort of race
Instead of winning what I want
I'm sitting here in second place
Because somewhere
the one I wanna be with's
with somebody else
Oh god, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
I wanna be that someone
that you're with
And I can talk about it all day long
'til I run out of breath
But I still wanna be that
someone that you're with
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
And I'm pacing by the phone
'Cause I hate to be alone
And if you're out there with him
somewhere and just about to kiss
God I wanna be that
someone that you're with
Well I hear your favorite songs
you sing along with everyday
And I borrow things that
I don't need for conversation sake
Last night I heard your key,
it hit your lock at 4 AM
Instead of being out with me
you must be out with them
[CHORUS]
Because somewhere the one
I wanna be with's
with somebody else
Oh god, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
I wanna be that
someone that you're with
And I can talk about it all day long
'til I run out of breath
But I still wanna be that
someone that you're with
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
And I'm pacing by the phone
'Cause I hate to be alone
And if you're out there with him
somewhere and just about to kiss
God, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
Well somewhere the one
I wanna be with's
with somebody else
Oh god, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
And I can talk about it all day long
'til I run out of breath
But I still wanna be that
someone that you're with
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
And I'm pacing by the phone
'Cause I hate to be alone
And if you're out there with him
somewhere and just about to kiss
God, I've got to be that
someone that
I wanna be that someone that
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
Nickelback's "Someone that you're with" displays regret in the lyrics. The subject of the song has recently been attracted to a woman who has moved in next to him. He is hesitant to ask the girl out, and is ultimately too late because the the neighbor has a boyfriend. The subject shows much regret that he had not talked or asked out the woman. He is so paranoid over the issue that he listens to hear at what time the woman arrives back home in the middle of the night. The subject is very interested in the woman, listening to her music and also thinking about her every move. Regret is a music theme in "Someone that you're with", and the song can relate to many love-struck individuals.
Lyrics:
"Someone That You're With"
I reside in 209, you're in 208
You moved in last Friday night,
and I just couldn't wait
So I tried to call across the hall,
to ask you out someday
But a lineup formed outside your door, and I was way too late
[CHORUS]
Well I'd rather start off slow
This whole thing's like
some sort of race
Instead of winning what I want
I'm sitting here in second place
Because somewhere
the one I wanna be with's
with somebody else
Oh god, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
I wanna be that someone
that you're with
And I can talk about it all day long
'til I run out of breath
But I still wanna be that
someone that you're with
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
And I'm pacing by the phone
'Cause I hate to be alone
And if you're out there with him
somewhere and just about to kiss
God I wanna be that
someone that you're with
Well I hear your favorite songs
you sing along with everyday
And I borrow things that
I don't need for conversation sake
Last night I heard your key,
it hit your lock at 4 AM
Instead of being out with me
you must be out with them
[CHORUS]
Because somewhere the one
I wanna be with's
with somebody else
Oh god, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
I wanna be that
someone that you're with
And I can talk about it all day long
'til I run out of breath
But I still wanna be that
someone that you're with
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
And I'm pacing by the phone
'Cause I hate to be alone
And if you're out there with him
somewhere and just about to kiss
God, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
Well somewhere the one
I wanna be with's
with somebody else
Oh god, I wanna be that
someone that you're with
And I can talk about it all day long
'til I run out of breath
But I still wanna be that
someone that you're with
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
And I'm pacing by the phone
'Cause I hate to be alone
And if you're out there with him
somewhere and just about to kiss
God, I've got to be that
someone that
I wanna be that someone that
I've got to be that
someone that you're with
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