Language is a vital feature in an empire. Language allows communication between individuals and can create a sense of common ground in which people can pass knowledge. With this in mind, language can be used for manipulation. For wars, empires such as the United states have used language in propaganda to spark the inner patriotism to fight among their side. As time has passed empires have used language to further their power through manipulation. On the other hand, as Dr. Chaturvedi mentioned in his lectures, resisting empire can be done through music, because as Dr. Lewis said, "Language can be used against empire." Edwin Starr’s song War for example was released in 1970 during the time of the Vietnam War. According to history channel staff, "between July 1966 and December 1973... a robust anti-war movement among American forces spawned violent protests" due to thousands of Americans facing heavy casualties and death (Vietnam War Protests 3). This song is an example of being a part of the protest movement with Starr opposing the U.S. empire's decision to go to war. While being relevant toward its time of creation it is still relevant today, because war is always a reoccurring event in this world. Edwin Star’s position on war is that it is not good and the United States empire should not be taking part in it. You instantly get this message when he repeats “War, huh-What is it good for-Absolutely nothing”(hook). Edwin Starr also tries to convince the song listeners the horrible outcomes of war. For example he says, “it means destruction-Of innocent lives-War means tears-To thousands of mothers eyes….Many a young man’s dreams-Made him disabled, bitter and mean-Life is much too short and precious to spend fighting wars these days-War can't give life-It can only take it away”(verse 3).These words bring imagery to the listeners and has them realize how many people are affected by just one war. Starr's song is working against the militaristic view of empire and contributing to the protest movement against war.
With language, Edwin Starr challenges empire to be more rational. In the middle of the song he states, "Peace, love and understanding Tell me, is there no place for them today? They say we must fight to keep our freedom but Lord knows there's gotta be a better way"that there are other means of solving issues other than war. That the people of our nation can choose a better means of solving problems and that our empire not thinking for the best of us. In the end, Mr.Starr hopes you come to an agreement with him and encourages you to sing with him as the song comes to an end when he says, “What is it good for-say it, say it,say it, say it” that you agree with him. Although language is a building stone for an empire, it can be a setback in vital events that need unity such as war. Many people today side with Edwin Starr and inhibit the empire's military power.
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