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