Gamble tells a deeply researched story of the writing of the song by Julia Ward Howe. She was an eccentric woman convinced the she was on a mission from God. After visiting a Civil War Union encampment, she claims the poem the song is based on came to her fully-formed in a dream/vision.
The real significance of the song, however, lies in the ways it was used after she penned it. The song has become a national anthem of sorts used by multiple causes to rally the faithful. With its apocalyptic and religious language, it appeals to those most fervent supporters of The Cause.
All can claim the Lord is on their side.
I have to say, the book now causes me to cringe when I hear the song. It really is pure propaganda. It's possible it's well-suited for the Civil War and the biblically epic narrative that war embodies, but today it has been used by anyone willing to appropriate it.
Beautiful book. Interesting story. I'm glad I got to enter into this esoteric piece of history.
It's too bad humans are what they are.
No comments:
Post a Comment