she borders the pavement
flanks avenues
the parades pass
white glove attended by

my mother the war

she'll raise a shaft
lift a banner
toss a rose

my mother the war

she knows every neighbor
chats at their doors
compare
econosize electric appliances
come share tea
and a seat by my
cradle with

my mother the war

forsaken vigil
three years each tour
hands of God enfold him
prayed mother of the war
haunt a doorway
beg a postman
is there word
for mother the war

my mother the war
mother

5 black stars

in bitter defiance
she's spiting the corps
wet a brood
short league for combat

my mother the war

well acquainted
with sorrow
with grief

my mother the war
mother the war

folded lace
carrion and
blood soaked robes
folded lace
carrion
blood soaked shroud!

my mother the war
my mother
mother
mother



Lyrics submitted by kornchick, edited by epiwoosh

My Mother The War song meanings
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2 Comments

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  • +1
    General Comment

    Well, I think it's about the Vietnam War... How everyone was initially supportive but it ended in grief and dismay for millions of Americans. This song is incredible, and the video is phenomenal.

    edge of the worldon February 13, 2005   Link
  • +1
    General Comment

    Well, I did my research... The original lyrics (talking about "liberty war bonds") definitely make it apparent that she's talking about WWII.

    edge of the worldon August 30, 2005   Link

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