Phil Ochs's "Remember Me" urges listeners to fight for peace and social justice, remembering the sacrifices made by soldiers in World War II. 英検2級以上 | 名曲で英語を学ぶ
The older I get, the more I agree with Phil Ochs that war itself is a fundamental crime against humanity. This song really resonates with me for that reason, along with "I Ain't Marchin Anymore"
Sadly, his prediction or warning (it happened once before and it can happen once again) more than 60 years ago seems to be coming true day by day. I hope that the "can happen" remains as it is and that it won't be another past tense.
Someone sent me a message with the following: "What does the a- in “Remember me when the crosses are a-burnin' mean?"
That's a good question! As far as I know, it has no meaning. It’s a filler to make the words fit the beat of the music. Phil Ochs often used this style in his songs. Bob Dylan did this, too. “For the times, they are a-changin’.”
The repetition of the words "remember me" in this song... for how many more generations do we have to remember all those that sacrificed their lives in the name of a war they didn't believe in?
Yes, Susie. Of course, you’re right. It’s an eternal struggle. And, I think the song is a warning: “We saw them come to power but we looked the other way / It happened once before and it can happen once again / Will you show me that I didn't die in vain?” And it might, indeed, happen again. But it so many times in history, the people stood up against tyranny - and triumphed over it. Some days, I think this will be the case yet again! x
Such a timely song—perhaps it will be in every generation. Despite the frustration and despair many of us feel now, we need to keep on keeping on.
Indeed we do, Kathy. So very appropriate for these times.
The older I get, the more I agree with Phil Ochs that war itself is a fundamental crime against humanity. This song really resonates with me for that reason, along with "I Ain't Marchin Anymore"
Yes, Paula. Phil expressed great deal of wisdom - and humor - in his songs. War and everything it entails is a crime committed by the perpetrator(s).
Sadly, his prediction or warning (it happened once before and it can happen once again) more than 60 years ago seems to be coming true day by day. I hope that the "can happen" remains as it is and that it won't be another past tense.
Mitsuru Hiki
Exactly, Mitsuru.
Someone sent me a message with the following: "What does the a- in “Remember me when the crosses are a-burnin' mean?"
That's a good question! As far as I know, it has no meaning. It’s a filler to make the words fit the beat of the music. Phil Ochs often used this style in his songs. Bob Dylan did this, too. “For the times, they are a-changin’.”
The repetition of the words "remember me" in this song... for how many more generations do we have to remember all those that sacrificed their lives in the name of a war they didn't believe in?
The answer breaks my heart. 💔
Yes, Susie. Of course, you’re right. It’s an eternal struggle. And, I think the song is a warning: “We saw them come to power but we looked the other way / It happened once before and it can happen once again / Will you show me that I didn't die in vain?” And it might, indeed, happen again. But it so many times in history, the people stood up against tyranny - and triumphed over it. Some days, I think this will be the case yet again! x
I pray your right Louise!🙏🏼