Song Interpretation Assignment

Song Interpretation Assignment

Directions: For each song that you choose, answer the questions in each section. You will choose TWO SONGS from List A and ONE SONG from List B. List C will include ONE SONG OF YOUR CHOOSING.

List A

“The Harpist” Philip H. Mancuso

See bottom of assignment for lyrics (this song was written by a friend of mine)

“Bushwick Blues” Delta Spirit

“Seven Days” Sting

“The Deception” Blackalicious

“The Fade” Megafaun

List B

“Schism” Tool (if you are easily freaked out, you might not want to watch the video for this song)

“Pyramid Song” Radiohead

“For Emma” Bon Iver

List C

One song of your choice

Before Listening

1.) Research the band/musician. Is there any interesting information available about them? What about the song itself? Explain.

2.) For the first song in List A, read the lyrics beforehand. What impressions do you get from the song before listening? What do you think it will sound like?

While Listening

1.) The first time listening to the song, simply listen—do not read along with the lyrics. What kinds of sounds do you hear? How would you describe the overall tone and mood of the song? Why?

2.) The second time listening to the song, read along with the lyrics. How do the lyrics relate to the way the song sounds?

3.) What other observations did you have about the song?

4.) Was there anything you didn’t understand about the lyrics? Define any words you were unsure about.

After Listening

1.) Did you like the song? Why or why not? Be specific!

2.) What kind of person would like this song? Why?

3.) If you read the lyrics beforehand for this song, did the lyrics match the sound you expected? Did anything surprise you?

The Harpist

Philip H. Mancuso

I guess it shows
To know the loss that I know
No point in hiding out
Away in my doubt
And to be free
My cards are on the table so see
The love that was once so secret in my heart
Has flown away from me
Well I guess it never was
And if I ever wondered well I may
My love may still return to me someday
She tugs right at my heart just like her strings
She’s the harpist
So if I may
Cross back to these tumbling seas
Ride my bike upon the open breeze
Back home to you
I know you said
We can’t be lovers just my friend
Why can’t it work out in the end
It could still be
But I know that in the past when we were sane
I never found the words to explain
I wish I could go back there to that day
And start all over
But in present light I know it can’t be
So I settle for myself and company
Oh lady go break someone else’s strings
You’re the harpist
The harpist
And I will rest
Heal my breast
Settle for never
Could be forever