O Say Can You Hear: A Cultural Biography of "The Star-Spangled Banner"

O Say Can You Hear? By Mark Clague explores the history and controversy surrounding the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." It examines the song's origins, lyrics, translations, and its use in sports, war, and political protest, reflecting the United States' quest to become a more perfect union.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2023
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Many people are familiar with the story of Francis Scott Key witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry and the bravery of American defenders in 1814. What many people do not know, however, is the journey of a topical broadside ballad to become the national anthem and a source of controversy today. In O Say Can You Hear? Mark Clague masterfully weaves together the stories of the song and the nation it represents. The book delves into the origins of both the words and music, explores alternative lyrics and translations, and examines the song's use in sports, times of war, and political protests. It reveals how the song's meaning reflects and is reflected by the United States' quest to become a more perfect union. From a victory song to a hymn of sacrifice and an object of protest, the story of Francis Scott Key's song is the story of America itself.

Weight: 275g
Dimension: 211 x 140 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324064473