Songs for the People

By Frances E. W. Harper (1825-1911)

Context

• Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was a prominent African American poet, activist, teacher, and suffragist in the 19th century. She was a powerful voice advocating for the rights of African Americans and women. Born in 1825, Harper published her first book of poems at just 20 years old, contributing to anti-slavery journals. She was an outspoken critic of slavery, segregation, and gender inequality, refusing to accept second-class treatment. During the American Civil War, her fame grew as she continued to challenge societal prejudices. "Songs for the People" reflects her vision of using poetry and music as tools to inspire harmony and peace in a world filled with conflict and oppression.

The Poem

Songs for the People

Let me make the songs for the people,

Songs for the old and young;

Songs to stir like a battle-cry

← Simile

Wherever they are sung.

Not for the clashing of sabres,

← Symbolism

For carnage nor for strife;

But songs to thrill the hearts of men

With more abundant life.

Let me make the songs for the weary,

← Adjective, "weary"

Amid life's fever and fret,

Till hearts shall relax their tension,

And careworn brows forget.

Let me sing for little children,

Before their footsteps stray,

Sweet anthems of love and duty,

To float o'er life's highway.

I would sing for the poor and aged,

When shadows dim their sight;

Of the bright and restful mansions,

← Imagery

Where there shall be no night.

Our world, so worn and weary,

Needs music, pure and strong,

← Juxtaposition

To hush the jangle and discords

Of sorrow, pain, and wrong.

Music to soothe all its sorrow,

Till war and crime shall cease;

And the hearts of men grown tender

Girdle the world with peace.

5 Quotes + Analysis to Achieve a Grade 9

1. Language device = Simile."Songs to stir like a battle-cry" Analysis: This simile suggests that Harper's songs are meant to be powerful and motivational, much like a battle cry that rallies people together. However, unlike a battle cry that typically encourages violence, these songs aim to inspire positive change and uplift the spirit. Harper is using the idea of a battle cry to show that music can have the same intensity and impact, but instead of leading to conflict, it can lead to unity and hope.

2. Language device = Symbolism. "Not for the clashing of sabres" Analysis: The "clashing of sabres" symbolises violence, war, and conflict. By rejecting this image, Harper suggests that her songs are not meant to incite destruction but rather to inspire something more positive and peaceful. The contrast between the "clashing of sabres" and the purpose of her songs emphasises Harper's belief that music should be a force for unity, peace, and healing, rather than for conflict.

3. Language device = Adjective "weary". "Let me make songs for the weary" Analysis: When Harper talks about "songs for the weary," she's focusing on those who are tired and struggling. The word "weary" conveys deep exhaustion, both physically and emotionally. Harper's songs are meant to comfort and renew strength in these individuals, offering them hope and relief from their troubles. This shows how she sees music as a source of healing for those who are worn down by life's challenges.

4. Language device = Imagery. "Bright and restful mansions" Analysis: The phrase "bright and restful mansions" creates an image of a peaceful and comforting place, free from the struggles of life. Harper uses this imagery to offer hope, particularly to the "poor and aged," suggesting that her songs provide a vision of a better future where suffering is replaced by peace. This shows how music can give people something positive to look forward to, even in difficult times.

5. Language device = Adjectives and contrast. "Music, pure and strong" Analysis: By describing the kind of music the world needs as "pure and strong," Harper is saying that true music should be both morally good ("pure") and powerful enough to make a difference ("strong"). She believes that music has the ability to cut through the "jangle and discords" of life, bringing harmony and healing to a troubled world. This highlights her view of music as a tool for creating a better, more peaceful society.

Form & Structure Points to Mention for Top Grades

• Ballad-like Stanza:
  • The poem is written in ballad-like stanzas, with a regular rhythm that echoes the hymns sung in abolitionist Christian communities. This form makes the poem feel like a song itself, reinforcing the theme of music as a powerful force for change.
• Repetition:
  • The repetition of phrases like "Let me make the songs" emphasises Harper's desire to use her voice for the good of all people. This repetition gives the poem a rhythmic and musical quality, which aligns with its message about the power of song.
• Imagery:
  • Harper uses strong imagery, such as "the clashing of sabres" and "bright and restful mansions," to contrast the harshness of war with the peace that music can bring. These images help the reader visualise the conflict and harmony she describes, making the poem's message more impactful.
• Sound Devices:
  • Harper uses sound effects, like alliteration and assonance, to enhance the musicality of the poem. For example, "fever and fret" and "pure and strong" create a pleasing rhythm that mirrors the soothing effect she hopes her songs will have on the world.

Example Paragraph for a Grade 9 Answer:

In "Songs for the People," Harper explores the power of music as a force for peace and healing in a world filled with conflict. The line "Songs to stir like a battle-cry" suggests that music can be as powerful as a call to arms, but with the purpose of inspiring positive change instead of violence. Harper's use of the ballad stanza, with its rhythmic and musical quality, reinforces the idea that songs can comfort and uplift those who are "weary" and struggling. This contrasts with…