Bruce Springsteen offered his fans “a fighting prayer” for America as he performed hours after Trump was named U.S. president on Wednesday.
Springsteen, who had endorsed Democratic nominee Kamala Harris for president, subtly referenced the election results when he opened his concert at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada on Wednesday.
He declared, “This is a fighting prayer for my country,” before launching into Long Walk Home, a song he rarely opens his shows with.
The track, which appears on his 2007 album Magic, contains the lyrics, “My father said, ‘Son, we’re lucky in this town/ It’s a beautiful place to be born/ It just wraps its arms around you/ Nobody crowds you, nobody goes it alone/ You know that flag flying over the courthouse/ Means certain things are set in stone/ Who we are, what we’ll do and what we won’t.'”
Springsteen followed Long Walk Home with another apt song, Land of Hope and Dreams.
Before the election, the rocker released a three-minute social media video supporting Harris and even appeared at campaign rallies for her in Pennsylvania and Georgia. During his speech at the latter event, he denounced “tyrant” Trump, saying he “does not understand this country, its history, or what it means to be deeply American”.
At his concert in Toronto, Springsteen also began by apologising to the crowd for starting more than an hour late, explaining that a flight delay left them “sitting on our asses” for hours.
The Story of Bruce Springsteen’s “Long Walk Home”
An Anthem of Reflection and Hope
Bruce Springsteen, known for his evocative songwriting and powerful performance style, crafted “Long Walk Home” as a poignant reflection on the state of his country and the personal journey of seeking reconciliation and hope. Released as part of his 2007 album, “Magic,” the song stands out as a statement of longing and a call to remember the foundational values that shape a community and a nation.Origins and Inspiration
“Long Walk Home” was written during a period of political and social unrest in the United States. Springsteen, often referred to as “The Boss,” has never shied away from addressing the complexities of American life in his music. The mid-2000s were marked by division and disillusionment, and Springsteen’s songwriting during this time sought to capture the essence of these feelings.
He has described “Long Walk Home” as a song about the loss of connection and the journey to reclaim it. In interviews, Springsteen explained that the song was inspired by the idea of home—not just as a physical place, but as a concept that embodies values, principles, and a sense of belonging. It is a reflection on the distance one might feel from these core elements in times of change and uncertainty.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of “Long Walk Home” are rich with imagery and emotion. The song begins with a sense of desolation and isolation:
Last night I stood at your doorstep
Trying to figure out what went wrongThese opening lines set the tone for a narrative of introspection and reflection. As the song progresses, it delves into themes of disillusionment and the yearning for a return to familiar and comforting ideals. The chorus brings a sense of hopeful resolve:
It’s gonna be a long walk homeThis refrain echoes throughout the song, emphasizing the arduous journey that lies ahead but also suggesting that the destination is worth the effort.
Springsteen uses the metaphor of walking home to symbolize the process of rediscovering one’s values and reconnecting with a community. The song speaks to the universal experience of feeling lost and the slow, often difficult path to finding one’s way back.Musical Composition
Musically, “Long Walk Home” is emblematic of Springsteen’s style, featuring a blend of rock and folk influences with a strong narrative structure. The arrangement is both restrained and powerful, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The use of guitars, keyboards, and backing vocals creates a rich, textured sound that complements the song’s themes.
The E Street Band, long-time collaborators with Springsteen, provide the instrumental backdrop that enhances the song’s emotional impact. The band’s contribution is crucial, as they bring a sense of familiarity and continuity to the music, reinforcing the idea of home and belonging.Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, “Long Walk Home” received critical acclaim for its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery. Critics praised Springsteen for his ability to capture the zeitgeist and for the song’s hopeful yet realistic tone. It resonated with listeners who found themselves facing similar feelings of uncertainty and a desire for connection.
The song has since become a staple in Springsteen’s live performances, often serving as a moment of reflection and unity during his concerts. Its message has remained relevant, and it continues to speak to audiences across different contexts and times.Conclusion
“Long Walk Home” stands as a testament to Bruce Springsteen’s enduring talent as a songwriter and storyteller. It captures the essence of a journey that many can relate to—one of searching for meaning, grappling with disillusionment, and ultimately striving for a sense of home and belonging. The song’s powerful imagery and evocative music ensure that it will remain a significant part of Springsteen’s legacy and a touchstone for listeners seeking solace and hope in turbulent times.
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