Posted on 08/16/2017 3:56:58 PM PDT by Kartographer
Seems they ain't done taken the very best!
Love it by the Band .
I’m surprised how many Freepers don’t seem to get that this is an anti-war song. “The very best” is his dead brother who never should have been drafted. The people are singing because the war is over.
It’s a beautiful song, but it’s no tribute to the confederacy. Just the opposite.
Now I don't mind choppin' wood, and I don't care if the money's no good.A beautiful and sad song.
Just take what you need and leave the rest,
But they should never have taken the very best.
Actually I saw an interview with Robby Robertson that said the song was at least partially inspired by a great admiration for many of the Southerners he met thru the great Levon Helm.
Now as a musician I can tell you this: Your stories change with the audience.
I’ve seen at least 3 different explanations by Paul McCartney of the song “Blackbird”.
Of course I’m not saying there isn’t an anti-War sentiment to the song, but in the interview Robertson was very respectful and sympathetic to the people who hold on to their southern pride.
I do see it and I sure don’t interrupt that way to me the words about the very best is that many were not satisfied in defeating the south, but had the need to punish it afterward taking everything of ant value including the peoples dignity.
So I guess we will have to agree to disagree.
Your comment reminds me of comments I remind in the past on a couple quotes on war I have posted being antiwar.
One is from ‘Gettysburg’: Confederate Prisoner: “Railroad cut just west of Gettysburg town. Wasn’t a pretty sight. Many a good boy lost a young and promising life. Some were blue, some were grey.”
The other is from the movie ‘The Longest Day’:Flight Officer David Campbell: “He’s dead. I’m crippled. You’re lost. Do you suppose it’s always like that? I mean war.”
I see nothing anti war about either, I see truth.
I agree. It's respectful to those who served, while expressing Virgil's disillusion in the cause, IMHO.
It’s an incredible song by an incredible band.
I recommend watching “The Last Waltz” for everyone who loves music.
Canadian Robbie Robertson wrote it after hearing stories from his Band-mate Levon Helm of Arkansas. It was meant to be respectful and historical.
Ping for the canteen
I Agree! Some songs are like ink blots people see what they want to see even when any sane person can see its a butterfly and not porn! ;-)
Written by a Canadian who visited Helena, Arkansas with Levon Helm in 1965. He said the people still seemed to be defeated. Levon said he helped write it to make sure Lee was respected. By the way, listen to The Band’s version on The Last Waltz.
She has an annoying voice.
Truth is the ultimate anti-war statement - wars are built on lies.
Seriously, it’s just wrong to not post The Band version!
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