7 Ways R.E.M. Exhuming Mccarthy Lyrics Still Resonate

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The release of R.E.M.'s album "Document" in 1987 marked a significant turning point in the band's career. Among the album's standout tracks is "Exhuming McCarthy," a song that captures the zeitgeist of the late 1980s and continues to resonate with listeners today.

In this article, we'll explore the ways in which the lyrics of "Exhuming McCarthy" remain relevant in the present day, and why this song continues to be a powerful commentary on the state of the world.

1. Critique of McCarthyism and the Red Scare

The lyrics of "Exhuming McCarthy" are a scathing critique of the McCarthyism and the Red Scare that gripped America in the 1950s. The song's title refers to the exhumation of the senator's body, but also serves as a metaphor for the excavation of the past and the exposure of the truth.

The song's lyrics highlight the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of protecting civil liberties. These themes remain just as relevant today, as we navigate the complexities of modern politics and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Key Lyrics:

• "Let's raise the mirror to the lip"
• "Fashion's on the tip of your tongue"
• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"

2. Commentary on the Commodification of Politics

The song also critiques the commodification of politics and the ways in which politicians use language to manipulate public opinion. The lyrics reference the " lip service" paid by politicians to their constituents, and the ways in which language is used to obscure the truth.

These themes are just as relevant today, as we navigate the complexities of modern politics and the ways in which language is used to shape public opinion.

Key Lyrics:

• "Let's raise the mirror to the lip"
• "Fashion's on the tip of your tongue"
• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"

3. Warning Against Nationalism and Xenophobia

The song also contains a warning against the dangers of nationalism and xenophobia. The lyrics reference the "red-baiting" of the 1950s, and the ways in which politicians used fear and paranoia to whip up public support for their policies.

These themes are just as relevant today, as we navigate the complexities of modern politics and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Key Lyrics:

• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"
• "We're all Stalin's children"
• "The world is collapsing around our ears"

4. Reflections on the Nature of Truth

The song also contains reflections on the nature of truth and the ways in which language is used to obscure it. The lyrics reference the "mirror" of truth, and the ways in which language can be used to distort and manipulate reality.

These themes are just as relevant today, as we navigate the complexities of modern politics and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Key Lyrics:

• "Let's raise the mirror to the lip"
• "Fashion's on the tip of your tongue"
• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"

5. The Power of Language to Shape Reality

The song also highlights the power of language to shape reality and the ways in which words can be used to create and destroy. The lyrics reference the "fashion" of language, and the ways in which words can be used to create a sense of reality.

These themes are just as relevant today, as we navigate the complexities of modern politics and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Key Lyrics:

• "Fashion's on the tip of your tongue"
• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"
• "We're all Stalin's children"

6. The Importance of Critical Thinking

The song also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the need to question authority. The lyrics reference the "red-baiting" of the 1950s, and the ways in which politicians used fear and paranoia to whip up public support for their policies.

These themes are just as relevant today, as we navigate the complexities of modern politics and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Key Lyrics:

• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"
• "We're all Stalin's children"
• "The world is collapsing around our ears"

7. The Enduring Legacy of R.E.M.'s Music

Finally, the song's lyrics serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of R.E.M.'s music. The band's songs have always been known for their complexity and depth, and "Exhuming McCarthy" is no exception.

The song's themes of critique, commentary, and reflection continue to resonate with listeners today, and serve as a testament to the band's enduring influence on the world of music.

Key Lyrics:

• "Let's raise the mirror to the lip"
• "Fashion's on the tip of your tongue"
• "You could make it right, but you choose not to"