☝️ Key Points
- Description of the devastating effects of a flood in Louisiana in 1927
- Criticism of the government's lack of support and attention towards the victims
- Portrayal of the desperation and suffering of people who lost their homes
- Highlighting the power of nature to destroy entire communities
- Remembrance of the importance of helping those affected by natural disasters
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song 'Louisiana 1927' by
Randy Newman describe the devastating effects of a flood in Louisiana in 1927. The lyrics talk about the major changes that were announced by the change of wind and the arrival of clouds. It started raining heavily and it rained for a very long time. The streets of Evangeline were flooded with six feet of water. The river kept rising all day and all night. Some people were lost in the flood, while others luckily managed to escape. The river broke through to Plaquemines and the water stood six feet high there as well.
The chorus of the song emphasizes the threat that the people in Louisiana were exposed to. They were literally washed away and the government did little to help them. President Coolidge visited the area by train and made derogatory remarks about the land of the 'poor Crackers'.
The lyrics of the song criticize the lack of support and attention given to the flood victims. They show the desperation and suffering of the people who lost their homes and feel abandoned by the government. The lyrics of the song also show the power of nature, which can destroy entire communities.
Overall, the lyrics of the song 'Louisiana 1927' by Randy Newman convey the importance of the historic flood disaster in Louisiana and address the issues and neglect towards the victims. It reminds us that natural disasters can have tragic consequences and that it is important to help and support those affected.