Analysis and commentary on a political song Essay

Analysis and commentary on a political song - Essay Example This song challenges the view that Presidents Reagan era improved the American economy; therefore, improving the standard of living for all Americans. Chapman’s song exposes us to the plight of the lower class in the society. It is evident that political leaders promise an economy that will enable citizens’ access good housing, well paying jobs. However, in the song it is evident that people in the lower class struggle to make ends meet. Living the good life remains a dream for a good number of citizens in the lower class. The protagonist in the song takes up two jobs to be able to provide for her family. Joblessness is an issue addressed in the song. The protagonists’ husband is jobless and his desperation drives him to become an alcoholic. Chapman utilises symbolism and metaphors to pass the message in the song. The fast car is a major symbol in the song. The fast car symbolises the protagonist means of escaping in search for a better life. The car symbolises power a means of leaving town in search of a new life. It is the power to escape unpleasant circumstances. The word fast is metaphorically utilised to emphasise on the protagonist excitement in leaving the small community. Her boyfriend is a symbol of hope for a good life. She believes that if they both get jobs they would be able to live a good life. Chapman utilises repetition in the chorus for example a repeat of the phrase â€Å"be someone† emphasises on the protagonist optimism and determination to make something out of her life (Chapman â€Å"Fast Car.†). Chapman’s song has a sad tone, for example, when she talks about her family. We understand her troubles and her reasons for wanting to escape the life she is leaving. Her father is an alcoholic; her mother abandons them due to the hardship that comes with poverty. The protagonist sacrifices her education to take care of her father. Chapman utilises temporal relationships to