Ecuador Anthem VS. Venezuela Anthem
Ecuador my country's anthem,
Reading about it is like it does tell me what my people and I feel. Because it is talking about what people did to defend my country, in my country these feelings still alive. I think more than Nationality and political view, it is patriotism that come from our soul. We always defend our people and our nation and we feel proud of what we have and how we succeed in our country. We think and we act according our feelings. Of course I can clearly recognize that this situation wasn't all the time, I still remember there were a time when I couldn’t really understand which sense make the national Anthem and the government rules in my country, but in the last three or four years it has been different. Exactly how the anthem express. With our new president I can say it! Our country is free and everybody can say that, it is a better country with freedom and justice.
Venezuela's national anthem, speaks of courage and justice, it talks about the people who fight for a nation free of injustice. In my opinion and according with what I heard, the people in Venezuela continue to struggle to achieve freedom. But according news and people who I know say the president is a person who has been thinking he has rights to create his own rules and regulations again the Venezuela's people, and I think that does not have anything to do with what the national anthem refers to their country.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
National Anthems
The Bangladesh National Anthem, is one that focuses on nature, beauty, and has an overall maternal feeling. Their country is reflected as a mother and source of life. Peace and beauty are evident as well. When Tagore wrote this beautiful poem in 1906, it was during a time where a division of the country was taking place, the British, based on religion. It became the newly formed country’s national anthem in 1972, a year after its established independence. This poem's maternal and peaceful undertones were thought of a peaceful reminder of better days, during times of turmoil and strife. (http://asnic.utexas.edu/countries/bangla/bangladeshm.html)
The Indian National Anthem, written in 1911, is much different from its neighbor of Bangladesh. Here a focus is placed on war, tribes, and masculinity. Fighting and conflict seem to be the main difference. Although, both anthems were written and used later on, when these countries were struggling for their independence.
France vs. United States
France:
Let's go children of the fatherland,
The day of glory has arrived!
Against us tyranny's
Bloody flag is raised! (repeat)
In the countryside, do you hear
The roaring of these fierce soldiers?
They come right to our arms
To slit the throats of our sons, our friends!
Refrain:
Grab your weapons, citizens!
Form your batallions!
Let us march! Let us march!
May impure blood
Water our fields!
(http://french.about.com/library/weekly/aa071400ma.htm for English translation)
A very violent national anthem, France encourages their people to stand up and fight for their rights against aristocracy, and overthrow their king. It talks of blood, and urges people to fight for their freedoms. This is very in tune with the time it was written. Its creation was during the heat of battle for the French Civil War. Here, the French people overthrew the aristocracy.
Our national anthem has a more optimistic point of view than that of the French. Written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, it focuses more towards the future. During a battle, has the flag survived? And can this flag still represent our “home of the brave?”
Both anthems were written during very important wars that would impact the creation of the country for the future. However, the French anthem is urging people to rise against tyranny. The United States’ anthem, in contrast, values bravery and freedom.
National Anthems
Tagore's National Anthems
I think to write a national anthem one has to be from that particular country or have lived there for so many years that she identifies with that country. I think it is possible to understand a nation's people by interviewing them and doing scholarly research but I think to truly feel a deep emotional connection one's life has to be intertwined with that nation. I think Tagore's Bangladesh and Indian national anthems are very different. The Bangladesh anthem is very sentimental. There are many emotional words like "love", "heart", "sweet", "affection", "tenderness", "sadness", and "tears." He also focuses on the landscape of Bangladesh. He creates a picture of the nation. Also, by referring to Bangladesh as "mother" he creates a emotional connection to the nation. Mothers provide life, they nurture us, and generally we always go back to our moms in times of need and joy. It is usually a lifelong and unbreakable bond. So by referring to Bangladesh as mother Tagore makes clear that the bond to Bangladesh is forever.
Haiti's and Jamaica's National Anthems
Haiti's Anthem:
Eternal Father bless our land,
Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand,
Keep us free from evil powers,
Be our light through countless hours.
To our Leaders, Great Defender,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, Land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
United States' National Anthem
Our anthem seems very antiquated. Its focus is on fighting for our independence and bravery. But today we are a superpower and we are seen by many countries as being a bully. I think that our 2 wars have skewed our image to many across the world and to some of our own citizens. Our anthem needs to represent the ideals of democracy, inclusion, and cultural acceptance. We are a land of opportunities which is why so many people want to live here.
I think to write a national anthem one has to be from that particular country or have lived there for so many years that she identifies with that country. I think it is possible to understand a nation's people by interviewing them and doing scholarly research but I think to truly feel a deep emotional connection one's life has to be intertwined with that nation. I think Tagore's Bangladesh and Indian national anthems are very different. The Bangladesh anthem is very sentimental. There are many emotional words like "love", "heart", "sweet", "affection", "tenderness", "sadness", and "tears." He also focuses on the landscape of Bangladesh. He creates a picture of the nation. Also, by referring to Bangladesh as "mother" he creates a emotional connection to the nation. Mothers provide life, they nurture us, and generally we always go back to our moms in times of need and joy. It is usually a lifelong and unbreakable bond. So by referring to Bangladesh as mother Tagore makes clear that the bond to Bangladesh is forever.
Haiti's and Jamaica's National Anthems
Haiti's Anthem:
- For our country,
- For our forefathers,
- United let us march.
- Let there be no traitors in our ranks!
- Let us be masters of our soil.
- United let us march
- For our country,
- For our forefathers.
- For our forebears,
- For our country
- Let us toil joyfully.
- May the fields be fertile
- And our souls take courage.
- Let us toil joyfully
- For our forebears,
- For our country.
- For our country
- And for our forefathers,
- Let us train our sons.
- Free, strong, and prosperous,
- We shall always be as brothers.
- Let us train our sons
- For our country
- And for our forefathers.
- For our forebears,
- For our country,
- Oh God of the valiant!
- Take our rights and our life
- Under your infinite protection,
- Oh God of the valiant!
- For our forebears,
- For our country.
- For the flag,
- For our country
- To die is a fine thing!
- Our past cries out to us:
- Have a strong soul!
- To die is a fine thing,
- For the flag,
- For our country.
Eternal Father bless our land,
Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand,
Keep us free from evil powers,
Be our light through countless hours.
To our Leaders, Great Defender,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, Land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
Teach us true respect for all,
Stir response to duty’s call, strengthen us the weak to cherish,
Give us vision lest we perish.
Knowledge send us Heavenly Father,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
United States' National Anthem
Our anthem seems very antiquated. Its focus is on fighting for our independence and bravery. But today we are a superpower and we are seen by many countries as being a bully. I think that our 2 wars have skewed our image to many across the world and to some of our own citizens. Our anthem needs to represent the ideals of democracy, inclusion, and cultural acceptance. We are a land of opportunities which is why so many people want to live here.
Anthems and Their Truths
I believe it is possible for a person to accurately represent two different countries. There are many ways a person would be able to do this. One way would be to do extensive research, which would include extensive interviews with many citizens. Additionally, the person would be able to really understand a country if he or she were to live in that countries for quite some years. I believe that these two scenarios would result in a person being able to give an accurate description of the country and its views/beliefs.
The two anthems written by Tagore for Bangladesh and India are very similar in my opinion. Both anthems include descriptions of the country’s physical features; either it be the blue skies and various trees of Bangladesh or the hills of India. One difference that I did notice was that while Bangladesh’s national anthem was strictly about the country’s natural physical features, India’s national anthem gave many references to previous rulers and leaders. With this in mind, it becomes obvious that the two anthems were written by a person that wasn’t a citizen or fully familiar with the two countries. Mentioning a place’s physical attributes are something a person can be acquainted with in one trip. Furthermore, mentioning a country’s key leaders is knowledge that can we acquired through books and not necessarily knowledge that is acquired from residing in a place.
Two anthems that I have read were Aruba’s and Poland’s. These two countries are on opposite sides of the world and I was curious as to how their anthems would differ. After reading the two I have realized that these two anthems differ greatly. Aruba’s anthem emphasizes the countries beauty and peacefulness. Which I believe is very accurate since I have visited there myself. The people are all friendly which is mentioned in the anthem. It is obvious that the anthem is trying to portray the country as very idealistic. I feel like this anthem can represent the country at any moment in time. It is very general by just describing the country’s physical attributes and the tendencies of its citizens.
Poland’s national anthem however, is quite different. It is war-based and emphasizes that Poland and its people will persevere and not let themselves be taken over. This becomes understandable since there have been many attempts to conquer Poland throughout history. It was a song that was sung by many Polish soldiers to keep them fighting even though Poland was almost wiped off the map. After the battles and Poland being reformed the song became the national anthem because of the strength it had during the war. This however, doesn’t describe the country as it is now. Poland is no longer fighting for existence, so even though it is a great reminder of perseverance and struggle to come up on top, they are no longer at war. On the other hand, perhaps an anthem that brings these types of feelings to its citizens is what they aim for.
One similarity that I did find between these two anthems is its patriotism. Both anthems use strong language to express their love for their countries. This is exactly what an anthem is supposed to do.
When it comes to our country’s nation anthem I do not believe that it accurately describes our country and it’s people. The anthem is written about our victorious war for independence. Yes, we are currently fighting in a war right now but that war is not for our independence. Additionally, the rockets and cannons described in the victory war don’t even apply in today’s time where we are capable of using nuclear weapons, and airplane missiles. I believe we should have an anthem that describes our country better as it is today. An economic powerhouse, and a “freedom” country where people escape from their own countries to achieve freedom here.
Extra Credit:
America the beautiful, America the powerful
All types of people intermingling and colorful.
Land of endless possibilities, no need for strife
People are happy with no other life.
Walk through the country and hear the laughter
We are strong and those in need we look after.
Land of the intellect, land of the greatest
We can be rude but we are also the sweetest.
The two anthems written by Tagore for Bangladesh and India are very similar in my opinion. Both anthems include descriptions of the country’s physical features; either it be the blue skies and various trees of Bangladesh or the hills of India. One difference that I did notice was that while Bangladesh’s national anthem was strictly about the country’s natural physical features, India’s national anthem gave many references to previous rulers and leaders. With this in mind, it becomes obvious that the two anthems were written by a person that wasn’t a citizen or fully familiar with the two countries. Mentioning a place’s physical attributes are something a person can be acquainted with in one trip. Furthermore, mentioning a country’s key leaders is knowledge that can we acquired through books and not necessarily knowledge that is acquired from residing in a place.
Two anthems that I have read were Aruba’s and Poland’s. These two countries are on opposite sides of the world and I was curious as to how their anthems would differ. After reading the two I have realized that these two anthems differ greatly. Aruba’s anthem emphasizes the countries beauty and peacefulness. Which I believe is very accurate since I have visited there myself. The people are all friendly which is mentioned in the anthem. It is obvious that the anthem is trying to portray the country as very idealistic. I feel like this anthem can represent the country at any moment in time. It is very general by just describing the country’s physical attributes and the tendencies of its citizens.
Poland’s national anthem however, is quite different. It is war-based and emphasizes that Poland and its people will persevere and not let themselves be taken over. This becomes understandable since there have been many attempts to conquer Poland throughout history. It was a song that was sung by many Polish soldiers to keep them fighting even though Poland was almost wiped off the map. After the battles and Poland being reformed the song became the national anthem because of the strength it had during the war. This however, doesn’t describe the country as it is now. Poland is no longer fighting for existence, so even though it is a great reminder of perseverance and struggle to come up on top, they are no longer at war. On the other hand, perhaps an anthem that brings these types of feelings to its citizens is what they aim for.
One similarity that I did find between these two anthems is its patriotism. Both anthems use strong language to express their love for their countries. This is exactly what an anthem is supposed to do.
When it comes to our country’s nation anthem I do not believe that it accurately describes our country and it’s people. The anthem is written about our victorious war for independence. Yes, we are currently fighting in a war right now but that war is not for our independence. Additionally, the rockets and cannons described in the victory war don’t even apply in today’s time where we are capable of using nuclear weapons, and airplane missiles. I believe we should have an anthem that describes our country better as it is today. An economic powerhouse, and a “freedom” country where people escape from their own countries to achieve freedom here.
Extra Credit:
America the beautiful, America the powerful
All types of people intermingling and colorful.
Land of endless possibilities, no need for strife
People are happy with no other life.
Walk through the country and hear the laughter
We are strong and those in need we look after.
Land of the intellect, land of the greatest
We can be rude but we are also the sweetest.
Bangladesh VS India National Anthem
National anthem of Bangladesh: "Amer Sonar Bangla"
My Bangel of gold,I love you
Forever your skies, your air set my heart in tune
as if it were a flute,
In spring, oh mother mine, the fragrance from
your mango-groves makes me wild with joy-
Ah, what a Thrill!
1. " "Amer Sonar Bang la" (My golden Bengal) was written in 1906 and composed by the poet Rabindro NathBangladesh." (Wikipedia)
Pakistan and Bangladesh was part of India. The British government divided Bangladesh from India. The National Anthem of Bangladesh means "mother and land'. They respect the land as a mother. The line "Amer sonar bangle" means the 'golden bangle' where you will find the land is full with mustered flower; which is yellow color. yellow color shine like gold. The line "Ki Shova, Ki chhaea go" means this country is surrounded by green trees, which is giving us shadow. Other important line" nodir kule kule" indicated for the poor citizen of Bangladesh, their only place to live by the river side. The last line of the Bangladesh anthem "Ma tor bodon khani
moline hole, Ami noeon jole bhasi" this lyric stands for the military, who fought for this countries mother, sister, daughter to save their honor.
Tagore. The first 10 lines of this song constitute the national anthem of Bangladesh. It was adopted in 1972 after the independence of
National Anthem of India: "Jana Gana Mana"
Jana-gana-mana-adhinaka, jaya he
Bgarata-bhagya-vudgata
Punjab-sindhu-Gujarata-Marath-
Dravida-Utkala-Banga
Vindhya-Himachala-Yamuna-Ganga
Uchchala-Jaladhi taranga
Tava Shubha name jage
Tavashubha ashish maange
Gaye tava jaya-gatha
jana-gana-mangala-dayaja jaya he
Bharat-bhagya-vidata
Jaya he, jaya he, jaya he
Jaya jaya jaya,, jaya he!!
1. " "Amer Sonar Bang la" (My golden Bengal) was written in 1906 and composed by the poet Rabindro NathBangladesh." (Wikipedia)
Pakistan and Bangladesh was part of India. The British government divided Bangladesh from India. The National Anthem of Bangladesh means "mother and land'. They respect the land as a mother. The line "Amer sonar bangle" means the 'golden bangle' where you will find the land is full with mustered flower; which is yellow color. yellow color shine like gold. The line "Ki Shova, Ki chhaea go" means this country is surrounded by green trees, which is giving us shadow. Other important line" nodir kule kule" indicated for the poor citizen of Bangladesh, their only place to live by the river side. The last line of the Bangladesh anthem "Ma tor bodon khani
moline hole, Ami noeon jole bhasi" this lyric stands for the military, who fought for this countries mother, sister, daughter to save their honor.
Tagore. The first 10 lines of this song constitute the national anthem of Bangladesh. It was adopted in 1972 after the independence of
National Anthem of India: "Jana Gana Mana"
Jana-gana-mana-adhinaka, jaya he
Bgarata-bhagya-vudgata
Punjab-sindhu-Gujarata-Marath-
Dravida-Utkala-Banga
Vindhya-Himachala-Yamuna-Ganga
Uchchala-Jaladhi taranga
Tava Shubha name jage
Tavashubha ashish maange
Gaye tava jaya-gatha
jana-gana-mangala-dayaja jaya he
Bharat-bhagya-vidata
Jaya he, jaya he, jaya he
Jaya jaya jaya,, jaya he!!
" It was first sung at the Calcutta on 27 december 1911. 'Jana Gana Mana' was officially adopted by the Constituent assembly as the Indian National anthem on January 24, 1950."(wikipedia) Indian anthem has the same meaning as Bangladesh anthem " Mother and land.
India is very big continent. The line " Punjab-Sindhu-Gujarata-Maratha-Dravida-Utkala-Banga" Punjab, Sinshu,Gujarata,Maratha all these state has different religion, race, language. Also different costume. even tho, everything is different but still we are all same and Bgarata is our destiny, therefore we are strong then anything. The last line "jaya he, jaya he, jaya he" mo matter what will happen tomorrow we will win, we will win and we will be the winner.
2." "Spangled banner" is the national anthem of the United states of America. A poem written in 1814 by the poet Francis Scott Key. "The Stat-Spangled Banner" was official use by the Navy in 1889 and the National anthem by a congressional resolution March 3, 1931, which was signed by President Herbert Hoover." (Wikipedia) Today's' American Culture represents its accurately because, after September 11. We are the immigrants still live here in United States of America. If this would happen to any other country we might get thrown from that country. Therefore, my opinion is, we are all equal and we all have same right as American citizens.
India is very big continent. The line " Punjab-Sindhu-Gujarata-Maratha-Dravida-Utkala-Banga" Punjab, Sinshu,Gujarata,Maratha all these state has different religion, race, language. Also different costume. even tho, everything is different but still we are all same and Bgarata is our destiny, therefore we are strong then anything. The last line "jaya he, jaya he, jaya he" mo matter what will happen tomorrow we will win, we will win and we will be the winner.
2." "Spangled banner" is the national anthem of the United states of America. A poem written in 1814 by the poet Francis Scott Key. "The Stat-Spangled Banner" was official use by the Navy in 1889 and the National anthem by a congressional resolution March 3, 1931, which was signed by President Herbert Hoover." (Wikipedia) Today's' American Culture represents its accurately because, after September 11. We are the immigrants still live here in United States of America. If this would happen to any other country we might get thrown from that country. Therefore, my opinion is, we are all equal and we all have same right as American citizens.
The Anthems
I believe Tagore’s representation of Bangladesh is accurate because Tagore did not write his poem with Bangladesh as the main focus. The leaders of Bangladesh chose the poem because it symbolizes an ideal Bangladesh and that idealistic view seems to be admiration and respect for nature. Furthermore it possible for Tagore to write a national anthem that relates to Bangladesh more than someone who actually lives in the country. Example someone who lives in the country will write about the positives and negatives of the country while a stranger may see only the positives because they do not have any direct relation to the country. Furthermore India’s anthem is religious in the aspect they are asking for guidance and giving thanks for their country. India’s national anthem gives praise to a high power rather than to the country’s history –people who fought for the country’s freedom- which shows the country’s dedication to their faith.
South Africa’s national anthem is asking their God to bless and unit the people of the country which shows this country’s commitment to their faith. The anthem states, “God bless Africa …. Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, in South Africa our land” (exploresouthafrica.net). South Africa’s national anthem is a combination of two anthems. The first anthem is “Nkosi Sikelel’ IAfrika” which was a poem “1897” which grew very popular and was mostly sung at political meetings. The second anthem is “The call of South Africa” which was accepted by the country as the anthem in “1928.” It seems both anthems were combined to close the gap between government and citizens. However the Barbadian national anthem (1966) is religious and patriotic. The anthem shows its appreciation for the country’s heroes but ask its God to continue to guide the country. The anthem states, “The Lord has been the people’s guide for past three hundred years, with his still on the people side we have no doubts or fears” (Irving Burgie). It shows the country’s commitment to maintaining its faith but continuing to improve as a country. Irving Burgie was similar to Tagore because he was not born in Barbados. Irving was born in the United States but his words and interpretation were bajan. His words represent the hearts and feelings of Barbados citizens because they are dedicated to their history and very religious.
If you really think about it the USA’s national anthem truly represents its culture today. It is considered today “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” A lot of Americans may not see they are fortunate but if their open their eyes and see how many people give their lives to live in this country they may understand America is a luxury for living. In addition thousands of soldiers put this country before their families which is funny because most people of other countries put family first. If that isn’t patriotic and I don’t know what is!
Extra Credit
Barbados Barbados you are a dot on the map
But you continue to let your voice be heard
God continues to guide and protect
And we continue to appreciate his grace
Our people are strong and fearless
But we feel each other’s pain
Our sugarcane is our energy
Our flying fish is our protein
Cricket is our game
And the seas are our beaches
Our future is safe because of history’s teachings
God please continue to show your love and grace
South Africa’s national anthem is asking their God to bless and unit the people of the country which shows this country’s commitment to their faith. The anthem states, “God bless Africa …. Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, in South Africa our land” (exploresouthafrica.net). South Africa’s national anthem is a combination of two anthems. The first anthem is “Nkosi Sikelel’ IAfrika” which was a poem “1897” which grew very popular and was mostly sung at political meetings. The second anthem is “The call of South Africa” which was accepted by the country as the anthem in “1928.” It seems both anthems were combined to close the gap between government and citizens. However the Barbadian national anthem (1966) is religious and patriotic. The anthem shows its appreciation for the country’s heroes but ask its God to continue to guide the country. The anthem states, “The Lord has been the people’s guide for past three hundred years, with his still on the people side we have no doubts or fears” (Irving Burgie). It shows the country’s commitment to maintaining its faith but continuing to improve as a country. Irving Burgie was similar to Tagore because he was not born in Barbados. Irving was born in the United States but his words and interpretation were bajan. His words represent the hearts and feelings of Barbados citizens because they are dedicated to their history and very religious.
If you really think about it the USA’s national anthem truly represents its culture today. It is considered today “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” A lot of Americans may not see they are fortunate but if their open their eyes and see how many people give their lives to live in this country they may understand America is a luxury for living. In addition thousands of soldiers put this country before their families which is funny because most people of other countries put family first. If that isn’t patriotic and I don’t know what is!
Extra Credit
Barbados Barbados you are a dot on the map
But you continue to let your voice be heard
God continues to guide and protect
And we continue to appreciate his grace
Our people are strong and fearless
But we feel each other’s pain
Our sugarcane is our energy
Our flying fish is our protein
Cricket is our game
And the seas are our beaches
Our future is safe because of history’s teachings
God please continue to show your love and grace
Saturday, April 17, 2010
United Kingdom vs. Australia
I am sort of conflicted on whether or not I believe it possible for one writer to accurately represent two different counties, especially a country in which he is not a citizen. The only way I could see this being acceptable is if the person had lived a number of years in both countries (regardless of citizenship). If so, the person most likely has a sense of pride regarding that country and what it stands for, also he would know first-hand what it is like living there, what the people are like, ect. If the person writes the national anthem based on research and a few visits to the country, then I wouldn’t consider that to be acceptable at all. In order to write a national anthem, one must personally know the country and it’s people.
I visited a friend in the United Kingdom over spring break…that does not give me the knowledge or right to write that country’s national anthem. I’d actually consider it an insult to the people who ARE citizens and have pride in their country and know what it stands for/represents.
When looking at the national anthems for Bangladesh and India both written by Tagore, it’s clear that they are very different based on what each country considers important. The Bangladesh national anthem speaks highly of nature and the seasonal beauty. Praise and glory is given to the skies, the air, the fields and the trees. Honestly, if I had read this without knowing it was the Bangladesh national anthem, I would have guessed it to be a poem or an excerpt from a book. It definitely isn’t what I would expect a national anthem to sound/look like. The Indian national anthem, to me, seems to be about praising someone—maybe a King or a Queen, although it doesn’t explicitly state which or who.
The United Kingdom’s national anthem vs. Australia’s national anthem.
I think it’s pretty clear from the title of the United Kingdom’s national anthem, “God Save the Queen,” what the country considers valuable—their Queen (or King). “The authorship of the song is unknown and beyond its first verse, which is consistent, it has many historic and extant versions” (Wikipedia). It is extremely nationalistic and at the time, in my opinion, accurately represented their culture. However, now I don’t think that is the case.
I thought it was pretty interesting that Australia used to have the same national anthem as the United Kingdom. I think that is even more insulting to have the same national anthem as another country then to have someone not from your country write your national anthem. Every country stands for something different. The national anthem that Australia uses today is called, “Advance Australia Fair,” and reminds me of the Bangladesh national anthem because it praises the “golden soil,” “the sea,” and claims it is the “land abound in nature’s gifts of beauty rich and rare.”
Similar to my feelings towards the UK’s national anthem, I believe that the United States National Anthem used to accurately represent our culture, but I definitely don’t think it represents today’s American culture.
I visited a friend in the United Kingdom over spring break…that does not give me the knowledge or right to write that country’s national anthem. I’d actually consider it an insult to the people who ARE citizens and have pride in their country and know what it stands for/represents.
When looking at the national anthems for Bangladesh and India both written by Tagore, it’s clear that they are very different based on what each country considers important. The Bangladesh national anthem speaks highly of nature and the seasonal beauty. Praise and glory is given to the skies, the air, the fields and the trees. Honestly, if I had read this without knowing it was the Bangladesh national anthem, I would have guessed it to be a poem or an excerpt from a book. It definitely isn’t what I would expect a national anthem to sound/look like. The Indian national anthem, to me, seems to be about praising someone—maybe a King or a Queen, although it doesn’t explicitly state which or who.
The United Kingdom’s national anthem vs. Australia’s national anthem.
I think it’s pretty clear from the title of the United Kingdom’s national anthem, “God Save the Queen,” what the country considers valuable—their Queen (or King). “The authorship of the song is unknown and beyond its first verse, which is consistent, it has many historic and extant versions” (Wikipedia). It is extremely nationalistic and at the time, in my opinion, accurately represented their culture. However, now I don’t think that is the case.
I thought it was pretty interesting that Australia used to have the same national anthem as the United Kingdom. I think that is even more insulting to have the same national anthem as another country then to have someone not from your country write your national anthem. Every country stands for something different. The national anthem that Australia uses today is called, “Advance Australia Fair,” and reminds me of the Bangladesh national anthem because it praises the “golden soil,” “the sea,” and claims it is the “land abound in nature’s gifts of beauty rich and rare.”
Similar to my feelings towards the UK’s national anthem, I believe that the United States National Anthem used to accurately represent our culture, but I definitely don’t think it represents today’s American culture.
Friday, April 16, 2010
China vs. Jamaica
China vs. Jamaica
The Bangladesh national anthem is very interesting. Throughout the whole anthem the singer or reader is reminded and informed that the country is a beautiful place. The anthem allows people to recognize the beauty of the country in different seasons and it also gives examples of what the country has to offer. Nature seems to be very valuable and respected by the people of Bangladesh. Like nature, the anthem gives the country maternal qualities. The national anthem was written in 1906 and during this period in time the country had been split in half and this anthem was suppose to revive the people’s spirits.
This anthem is similar to the India’s national anthem because nature and geography are used to make the country seem like a great place to be. The use of nature and geography is weak in comparison to Bangladesh’s anthem and contains more pride from a victory of a war. India’s anthem is more of a war anthem.
The content in the two anthems from China and Jamaica are completely different. China’s anthem is very tough and motivating. The whole message is for the people of China to rise up and unite together to be a powerful nation, which no one can defeat. After reading it, the anthem makes China seems strong, and strong willed which in a sense makes them seem very intimidating.
Jamaica on the other hand makes the people seem very loyal to the country and it seems like Jamaica is just an enjoyable place to be. The anthem from a catholic perspective resembles a prayer, a prayer similar to a Catholic protection prayer. Jamaica is a mellow place, which doesn’t promote war. Instead, the anthem makes one believe that Jamaica should be appreciated to the fullest extent.
This anthem is similar to the India’s national anthem because nature and geography are used to make the country seem like a great place to be. The use of nature and geography is weak in comparison to Bangladesh’s anthem and contains more pride from a victory of a war. India’s anthem is more of a war anthem.
China’s National Anthem
Arise, ye who refuse to be slaves;
With our very flesh and blood
Let us build our new Great Wall!
The peoples of China are in the most critical time,
Everybody must roar his defiance.
Arise! Arise! Arise!
Millions of hearts with one mind,
Brave the enemy's gunfire,
March on!
Brave the enemy's gunfire,
March on!
March on!
March on, on!
Jamaica’s National Anthem
Eternal Father bless our land,
Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand,
Keep us free from evil powers,
Be our light through countless hours. To our Leaders, Great Defender,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, Land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
Teach us true respect for all,
Stir response to duty’s call, strengthen us the weak to cherish,
Give us vision lest we perish.
Knowledge send us Heavenly Father,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
Jamaica on the other hand makes the people seem very loyal to the country and it seems like Jamaica is just an enjoyable place to be. The anthem from a catholic perspective resembles a prayer, a prayer similar to a Catholic protection prayer. Jamaica is a mellow place, which doesn’t promote war. Instead, the anthem makes one believe that Jamaica should be appreciated to the fullest extent.
Anthems
The two tagore anthems in my opinion dont really describe the nations morals or beliefs. I think it focuses more on describing their nature, like the sea, the wind and the hills. Also, I think the anthems sound alot like poems.
The mexican anthem really represents the feeling that thousands of mexican felt after they became independent from spain and they won the war. It basically ask all mexican to go to war to defend their country. Also, it shows the fact that mexicans are very religious. Because it talks about how the angel and god will watch over them, to make sure they return back home safely.
In contrast to the cuban anthem which it only tells their people to go to war and to not be afraid because if they die then they have a glourious death. But it really doesnt tell me anything about the people that live in cuba, if they are religious or not, what they do, or why are they going to war. It only urges their people to go to war and die, so that they arent cowards.
The united States Anthem sounds very patriotic. It lets the reader know that this nation is very religious "in god we thrust" and it tells us that they are in war because they want to be free and that they are proud of their country and their flag. which I do think represent them correctly base on the fact that they were under the british rule and they wanted to break free and become a free nation.
The mexican anthem really represents the feeling that thousands of mexican felt after they became independent from spain and they won the war. It basically ask all mexican to go to war to defend their country. Also, it shows the fact that mexicans are very religious. Because it talks about how the angel and god will watch over them, to make sure they return back home safely.
In contrast to the cuban anthem which it only tells their people to go to war and to not be afraid because if they die then they have a glourious death. But it really doesnt tell me anything about the people that live in cuba, if they are religious or not, what they do, or why are they going to war. It only urges their people to go to war and die, so that they arent cowards.
The united States Anthem sounds very patriotic. It lets the reader know that this nation is very religious "in god we thrust" and it tells us that they are in war because they want to be free and that they are proud of their country and their flag. which I do think represent them correctly base on the fact that they were under the british rule and they wanted to break free and become a free nation.
National Anthems: Israel and India
The English and Hebrew versions of the state of Israel national anthem:
Hatikva\Naftali Hertz Imber
As long as deep in the heart,
The soul of a Jew yearns,
And forward to the East
To Zion, an eye looks
Our hope will not be lost,
The hope of two thousand years,
To be a free nation in our land,
The land of Zion and Jerusalem.
| Transliteration | התקוה |
| Kol od balevav p'nimah | כל עוד בלבב פנימה |
| Nefesh Yehudi homiyah | נפש יהודי הומיה |
| Ulfa'atey mizrach kadimah | ולפאתי מזרח קדימה |
| Ayin l'tzion tzofiyah | עין לציון צופיה |
| Od lo avdah tikvatenu | עוד לא אבדה תקותנו |
| Hatikvah bat shnot alpayim | התקוה בת שנות אלפים |
| L'hiyot am chofshi b'artzenu | להיות עם חופשי בארצנו |
| Eretz Tzion v'Yerushalayim | ארץ ציון וירושלים |
India national anthem:
Thou art the ruler of the minds of all people,
Dispenser of India's destiny.
Thy name rouses the hearts of the Punjab,
Sind, Gujarat, and Maratha,
Of the Dravid, and Orissa and Bengal.
It echoes in the hills of Vindhyas and,
Himalayas, mingles in the music of the
Jamuna and the Ganges and is chanted by
the waves of the Indian sea.
The pray for the blessings,
and sing by the praise,
The saving of all people
waits in thy hand.
Thou dispenser of India's destiny,
Victory, victory, victory to thee.
When looking at both anthems I can say that India's anthem is listing the different people within this huge country, it also presents us with the different views and parts of the land. It is trying to unite the gaps, the arguments, the differences and rely on similarities to form one anthem for one country.
Hatikva, means "the hope\ our hope". The anthem is referring to the Jewish people, wherever they are. it is talking about the infinite yearning for a place to call home, for a country where they will be protected and to live there in freedom. This hope is two thousands years old, because the people of Israel (the Jewish people) were exiled from its' country for that time of period. Unfortunately this song is still very relevant, this country is in constant threat from its' surrounding countries, terrorism from abroad and from within. The Anthem was written more then forty years before then state was founded and that's where the name come from, it was a hope, something that you wish for it to happen.
Dror
(I am not very familiar with the U.S. national anthem, but from reading it briefly it looks like it symbolize a period that is long gone. But it doesn't mean it is no relevant. Moreover, I think it is very important that the anthem will represent not only the present being but will also remind its' people about their origin, and about the struggle they have gone through to form the country. I must say though, that when I think of the sentence "the home of the brave" It's hard for me to associate Madoff, Bush and Snooki with these words..)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
National anthems: Japan and United Kingdom
1. Anthem of Japan vs. United Kingdom
National anthem of Japan: “Kimigayo”
May Japan's Reign
Last for ten thousand years
May her stones turn to rocks
May those rocks turn to boulders
May Japan Reign and Flourish
"Kimigayo" is Japan's national anthem. Its lyrics are based on a Waka poem written in the Heian period (794-1185), sung to a melody written in the later Meiji period. The anthem was legally realized in 1999.
Kimi" indicates the Emperor, who is the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people, and whose position is derived from the will of Japanese citizens, with whom sovereign power resides. The phrase "Kimigayo" indicates the State, Japan, which has the Emperor enthroned as the symbol of the State and of the unity of Japanese citizens. It is reasonable to take the lyric to mean the wish for the lasting prosperity and peace of the country. Kimigayo is also said to be symbol of Japanese imperialism and militarism (Wikipedia).
National Anthem of Britain: “God Save the Queen”
God save our gracious Queen,
Long live our noble Queen,
God save the
Queen:
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over
us:
God save the Queen.
O Lord, our God, arise,
Scatter her enemies,
And make them fall.
Confound their politics,
Frustrate their knavish
tricks,
On Thee our hopes we fix,
God save us all.
Thy choicest
gifts in store,
On her be pleased to pour;
Long may she reign:
May
she defend our laws,
And ever give us cause
To sing with heart and voice
God save the Queen
The song is a typical patriotic song dedicated to the King and the Queen. The song reflects the importance of the King and the Queen to the British people, as they pray to God to give His help to the King and the Queen of the nation. To them, the King and Queen are the representatives for the Britain, the ones who will protect the people and the nation agaisnt outsiders and will uphold the nation. The song also reflects the main religion of the United Kingdom.
Both anthems are of nations with monarchy, and both of them wish for the long lasting of the kingdom reign and the royal family.
2) The national anthem of United States is a war song, and “the lyrics come from "Defence of Fort McHenry", a poem written in 1814 by the 35-year-old amateur poet Francis Scott Key after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British Royal Navy ships in Chesapeake Bay during the Battle of Fort McHenry in the War of 1812” (Wikipedia). The song reflects the hard-fought wars that happened in the US for the sake of our independence and freedom. Throughout the song there is a proud voice of the Americans of their hard fight for their own liberty and individuality, which are the core values of this sweet land.
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