Anthem Quote by Tony Kushner
“The white cracker who wrote the National Anthem knew what he was doing. He set the word "free" to a note so high nobody could reach it. That was deliberate.”
About This Quote
The anthem's composer deliberately set "free" at an unreachable pitch, highlighting a paradox of liberty.
In simple terms: The composer made "free" unattainable to make a point.
Recognize hidden contradictions in symbols.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- national symbols
- public speeches
- educational analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why make freedom seem impossible?
- What does this say about societal promises?
The message may be misinterpreted as cynicism.