Question

Listen to and read lyrics to the song "Glory"

In 250 words or more explain the denotative meaning of the song and the connotative meaning of the song.
Make sure to give textual evidence.

Answer 1

The song “Glory” has a denotative meaning related to the historic civil rights movement and a connotative meaning that evokes universal themes of hope and justice. The lyrics pay tribute to civil rights figures and use changing imagery and juxtaposition to connect past and present struggles for equality. The use of poetic devices and evocative music deepens the emotional resonance of the song's message.

Step-by-step explanation:

The song “Glory”, from the motion picture Selma, is imbued with deep denotative and connotative meanings that resonate with historical significance and cultural impact. Denotatively, the lyrics describe the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement, especially the historic march from Selma to Montgomery. Textual evidence such as “One day, when the glory comes, It will be ours” highlights the anticipated victory in the struggle for equality.

Connotatively, the song transcends its literal representation of a historic event, taking on broader meanings of hope, resilience, and solidarity. The phrase “It will be ours” connotes a collective success that extends beyond any single achievement to encompass a universal desire for justice and recognition. It imbues the song with an inspiring tone that galvanizes the listener to reflect on and participate in the ongoing quest for social justice.

Music and meaning are also conveyed through allusions to figures like Martin Luther King Jr., manifesting the song as a tribute to those who fought for civil rights. Additionally, the connotation of “glory” evolves through the song’s narrative, moving from a distant dream to an attainable reality, and symbolically representing the arc of the moral universe bending towards justice.

Moreover, the literary technique of changing imagery, similar to Cohen’s manipulation of juxtapositions in “Love Calls You by Your Name”, serves to illustrate the contrasting situations of the past and present, and to bridge the distance between historical struggles and modern-day resonances. Such poetic devices alongside the emotionally evocative sound of the music enhance the overall impact and depth of the song’s message.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

The denotative meaning of the song is a celebration of the triumphs and struggles of the Civil Rights Movement, and a tribute to the heroes who fought for justice and equality. The lyrics describe the historical events and figures of the movement, including Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Selma, Alabama, where the song is set. The lyrics also express a sense of hope and determination for the future, as Common and Legend sing about "one day when the glory comes" and "victory is won."

However, the connotative meaning of the song goes beyond its literal message, and it speaks to a broader theme of social justice and human dignity. The song is a call to action for people to stand up for what is right and just, and to fight against the injustices that still exist in the world today. The lyrics are filled with references to the struggles of oppressed peoples around the world, as Common raps about "hands to the Heavens, no man, no weapon / Formed against, yes glory is destined."

The song's chorus, "Glory, glory, hallelujah / When I lay my burden down," is a powerful statement of faith and hope, and it serves as a reminder that the fight for justice is ongoing. Overall, "Glory" is a deeply emotional and inspiring song that speaks to the universal human desire for freedom, equality, and dignity.