Question

Write down three different claims you might make about the author's purpose, the work's impact on society, or another important point. For each claim, ask yourself: Is it debatable? Is it supportable with reasons and evidence?

"7 Years" by Lukas Graham
Once, I was seven years old, my mama told me
"Go make yourself some friends, or you'll be lonely"
Once, I was seven years old
It was a big-big world, but we thought we were bigger
Pushing each other to the limits, we were learning quicker
By 11, smoking herb and drinking burning liquor
Never rich, so we were out to make that steady figure
Once, I was 11 years old, my daddy told me
"Go get yourself a wife, or you'll be lonely"
Once, I was 11 years old
I always had that dream like my daddy before me
So I started writing songs, I started writing stories
Something about the glory just always seemed to bore me
'Cause only those I really love will ever really know me
Once, I was 20 years old, my story got told
Before the morning sun, when life was lonely
Once, I was 20 years old
(Lukas Graham!)
I only see my goals, I don't believe in failure
'Cause I know the smallest voices, they can make it major
I got my boys with me, at least those in favor
And if we don't meet before I leave, I hope I'll see you later
Once, I was 20 years old, my story got told
I was writing 'bout everything, I saw before me
Once, I was 20 years old
Soon, we'll be 30 years old, our songs have been sold
We've traveled around the world, and we're still roaming
Soon, we'll be 30 years old
I'm still learning about life, my woman brought children for me
So I can sing them all my songs, and I can tell them stories
Most of my boys are with me, some are still out seeking glory
And some I had to leave behind, my brother, I'm still sorry
Soon, I'll be 60 years old, my daddy got 61
Remember life and then your life becomes a better one
I made the man so happy when I wrote a letter once
I hope my children come and visit, once or twice a month
Soon, I'll be 60 years old, will I think the world is cold?
Or will I have a lot of children who can warm me?
Soon, I'll be 60 years old
Soon, I'll be 60 years old, will I think the world is cold?
Or will I have a lot of children who can hold me?
Soon, I'll be 60 years old
Once, I was seven years old, my mama told me
"Go make yourself some friends, or you'll be lonely"
Once, I was seven years old
Once, I was seven years old

Answer 1

Claim 1: The author's purpose in "7 Years" is to reflect on his life and experiences as he ages.

Debatable: Yes, some may argue that the purpose is simply to tell a story or express emotions.

Supportable with reasons and evidence: Yes, the song is structured around the author's life at different ages and his reflections on those times. The lyrics express themes of growth, change, and the passage of time.

Claim 2: "7 Years" has had a significant impact on listeners and society.

Debatable: Yes, some may argue that the song has had little impact or that its impact is insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

Supportable with reasons and evidence: Yes, the song has been widely popular and has received critical acclaim. Its themes and messages are relatable to many listeners, and it has been covered and remixed by other artists. Additionally, the song's success has contributed to Lukas Graham's career and the music industry as a whole.

Claim 3: "7 Years" highlights the importance of family and relationships.

Debatable: Yes, some may argue that the song is more focused on the author's personal experiences and growth rather than family and relationships.

Supportable with reasons and evidence: Yes, the lyrics reference the author's mother, father, and children, and emphasize the value he places on the people in his life. The song also touches on the idea that our relationships with others shape us and influence our paths in life.

Answer 2

Claim 1: The purpose of "7 Years" by Lukas Graham is to reflect on the progression of life and the importance of personal relationships.

Debatable: This claim may be debatable because the purpose of the song may be interpreted differently by different listeners.

Supportable with reasons and evidence: The lyrics of the song, particularly the repetition of the lines "Once, I was [age] years old" and the reflections on the speaker's relationships with family and friends, suggest that the purpose of the song is to reflect on the progression of life and the importance of personal relationships.

Claim 2: "7 Years" has had a significant impact on society by inspiring listeners to reflect on their own lives and relationships.

Debatable: This claim may be debatable because the impact of the song may be difficult to measure or quantify.

Supportable with reasons and evidence: Many listeners have reported being deeply moved by the lyrics of "7 Years," and the song has been streamed over 1 billion times on Spotify. The song's popularity and emotional resonance suggest that it has had a significant impact on society by inspiring listeners to reflect on their own lives and relationships.

Claim 3: The use of specific ages in the song's lyrics makes it relatable to people of all ages.

Debatable: This claim may be debatable because some listeners may not find the use of specific ages in the lyrics to be relatable.

Supportable with reasons and evidence: The song's lyrics describe the speaker's life at various ages, from 7 to 60, and reflect on the universal experiences of growing up, pursuing dreams, and forming relationships. The use of specific ages may make the song more relatable to listeners who have had similar experiences at those ages, but the song's themes and messages are relevant to people of all ages.