The Working Song by Breton Braley Oh, we're sick to death…
““The Working Song by Breton Braley Oh, we're sick to death of the style of song That's only a sort of a simpering song, A kissy song and a sissy song Or a weepy, creepy, whimpering song. So give us a lift of a lusty song, A boisterous, bubbling, boiling song, Or a smashing song and a dashing song, Oh, give us the tang of a toiling song, The chanty loud of the working crowd, The thunderous thrall of a toiling song! Ay, sing us a joyous daring song, Not a moaning, groaning, fretting song, But a ringing song, and a swinging song, A rigorous, vigorous, sweating song. We have had enough of the gypsy song, Which is only a lazy, shirking song, So toughen your throat to a rougher note And give us the tune of a working song, A tune of strife and the joy of life, The beat and throb of a working song!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A call for vibrant, energetic music that reflects labor’s vigor, rejecting weak, sentimental tunes in favor of robust, lively songs.
In simple terms: Celebrate strong, lively songs that mirror hard work.
Key Takeaway
Embrace energetic, purposeful expression.
Themes
labor
music
authenticity
Mood
determined
energetic
Type
poetic
motivational
When to use this quote
- factory gatherings
- union meetings
- community festivals
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
working class culture
artistic expression
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does music inspire labor solidarity?
- What alternatives balance vigor and sensitivity?
A Different Perspective
Some may find the tone too aggressive.