submissions
| John Lennon – Woman Is the Nigger of the World Lyrics
| 2 years ago
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@[TidewaterHippie:46389], I think more to the point, John was comparing but the truth is/was that all women are subservient to men, and minority women are oppressed even by minority men. I think John's message is loud and clear.
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submissions
| John Lennon – Woman Is the Nigger of the World Lyrics
| 2 years ago
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@[sublime_10:46388], you are applying contemporary societal consciousness to a moment in history when the "N" word was offensive, but not to the same degree it is today. Something is not sexist/racist/classism if the intention is to be liberate sexist, racial roles and classes in society. In tandem with this song, look at Imagine—it's a socialist view of how the world would be better if everyone were equal. You miss his point because you're viewing it in in a 21st century lens lacking circumstances.
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submissions
| John Lennon – Woman Is the Nigger of the World Lyrics
| 2 years ago
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@[sublime_10:46387], I really respect your opinion, but disagree. If Yoko or another woman had written the song, the question would then become, is it still racist and sexist when a woman sings it? I admit it is a shock to the system when you hear it, but to shock was always Lennon's aim. I don't think it's right to separate his personality, his intentions and historical circumstances from your opinion, in fact, those particulars should influence your opinion. And yes, I understand and agree the "N" word is unequivocally offensive, but he was making a larger point about the social, economic and political power over women CONTEMPORANEOUS TO HIM—not to you right now—and it was at a time when the abortion debate was underway, with Roe v Wade passed less than a year later (not to mention heightened racial tensions here and in England). I can only imagine, historically speaking, the moment came to a full head as he watched women fighting for their political right in the modern era— just like any "slave" revolution fighting for liberation. Additionally, I think it's safe to assume he was also affected by Yoko's treatment in the media and by fans. Yoko was an avant-garde thinker, and I'm sure she encouraged John's political engagement. IF the song had the effect you think it did, then its message would have backfired, but it did not. You can have an opinion, of course, but it misrepresents the facts behind John Lennon's intention, which is widely understood and accepted today. |
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