☝️ Key Points
- The song lyrics tell the tragic story of the 1913 massacre in Calumet, Michigan.
- It criticizes the greed and lust for power that led to this tragedy.
- The text reminds us of the terrible consequences of greed and violence.
- It is a poignant message that urges us to stand up for justice and compassion.
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song '1913 Massacre' by
Woody Guthrie tell the tragic story of the 1913 massacre in Calumet, Michigan. The song takes us back to the year 1913, to a time of poverty and struggle for the miners in the copper region.
The text begins with the description of the Italian Hall, where the miners celebrate their grand Christmas ball. It tells of singing, dancing, and children dancing around the big Christmas tree. There is a joyful atmosphere where the workers and their families can escape the harsh work life for a moment.
But then a threatening turn takes place. The copper boss' thugs stand at the door and claim there is a fire. A woman shouts that this is not true, but the thugs block the exit and hold the people in the hall captive.
A tragedy follows. The children are crushed on the stairs while the thugs outside laugh and enjoy their evil act. It is a terrible sight that the narrator has never seen before. Finally, 73 children are killed.
The lyrics criticize the greed for money and power that led to this tragedy. The parents cry and the miners groan in pain. The text ends with the words 'See what your greed for money has done'.
The lyrics of the song '1913 Massacre' by Woody Guthrie remind us of the terrible consequences of greed and violence. They tell the story of a community that is destroyed in its joy and innocence by the greed of the bosses. It is a powerful message that reminds us of our responsibility to stand up for justice and compassion.