In this subject we will begin with an analysis of early spirituals and blues songs of African-Americans and then then consider popular and political lyric compositions of the 20th and 21st Centuries. The emphasis will be on folk and blues traditions, songs of protest and social justice, particularly in the following contexts: the American Civil Rights movement; the anti- nuclear and anti-war movements; feminist politics; Aboriginal land-rights, stolen generations and reconciliation politics. We will consider: what are the qualities and conditions that turn a conscience-song into an activist anthem?; how important are the literary qualities of a protest song to its success?; what relationships exist between the popularity of a song and its political effectiveness? There will be a practical emphasis on the craft of writing song lyrics. The composition of exemplary songs of social justice will be examined and students will be required to write their own song lyrics on specified themes.

Subject rules

Readings