Psychedelia and Vietnam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Psychedelia and Vietnam - Essay Example In this way one considers that the narrator in the song speaks about having to avoid mortar shells. In great part the specific musical components contribute to this song’s message. In this way the guitar is low-key and thoroughly allows the vocals to shine through. Another prominent recognition is that Paxton’s voice is subdued, yet contains a significant degree of ethos, leading the listener to empathize with his message. Another prominent song with a war message is Johnny Wright’s ‘Hello Vietnam’. This song is less explicit in its criticism of the Vietnam War. While the song alludes to the arbitrary nature of the war, it is more concerned with articulating a story about a lost love going abroad to fight in the war. This seems to be the song’s most effective part. To an extent the song can even be interpreted as embracing the war. In this way the song speaks of American’s mission abroad and the importance of stopping communism before it becomes a larger problem. Specifically, the song implements a lyrical metaphor in comparing communism to a fire that must be put out or risk a larger problem. In terms of the specific musical components, to an extent one can argue that they interfere with the song’s message. The song adopts a lackadaisical country western musical approach that seems more concerned with the love story than conveying any sort of meaningful politi cal message. Finally, Sgt. Barry Sadler’s ‘Ballad of the Green Berets’ presents another perspective on war. While the first two songs made specific comments on the Vietnam War, this song instead constitutes a firm embracement of American military values. In this way, as the title suggests, the song functions as a ballad for the Green Berets. To a large extent the Green Berets are presented as heroic and brave individuals. While the song lacks a political message, this may actually be its strongest part;