Table of Contents
Introduction
Prison Song by Graham Nash is a poignant reflection on the challenges and hardships faced in life. In this post, we’ll explore the background of the song and its significance; we will also provide resources for English language learners to engage with the lyrics.
Through its emotive storytelling and simple language, “Prison Song” offers valuable lessons for learners while resonating with listeners on a deeper level.
Let’s delve into the world of this timeless song.
Prison Song by Graham Nash
“Prison Song” was written by Graham Nash and appeared on the album “Wild Tales.”
Level
- Suitable for beginner and intermediate students.
Facts about the song
- Facts about the song
- Song: Prison Song
- Album: Wild Tales
- Date of release: 1974
- Genre: Rock
- Length of the song: 3 minutes and 10 seconds
- Writer: Graham Nash
- Produced by: Graham Nash
Interesting information about the song
Prison Song was written and performed by Graham Nash from the Wild Tales album. Contrary to later reports, the darker tone of this album was not inspired by the murder of Nash”s then-girlfriend, Amy Gossage, by her brother; that tragedy happened more than a year after the release of this LP. Rather, Nash was in a somber mood in the wake of the failures of his relationships with Joni Mitchell and Rita Coolidge, and the unwillingness at the time of the other members of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young to reunite for a new album.
The Topic of the Song
The song talks about the harsh consequences faced by ordinary people for minor infractions, contrasting it with the privilege of wealth. It narrates the experience of individuals who are forced to leave their loved ones due to legal issues, emphasizing the disparity in justice based on socioeconomic status.
Through its lyrics, the song sheds light on the inequality within the legal system and the struggles faced by the less fortunate.
The video
Watch the official clip on YouTube:
The lyrics
Click the link below to get the full lyrics:
Language points
The song includes many interesting language points:
- Simple past
- One day a friend took me aside and said I have to leave you
- Present perfect simple
- They say I’ve done wrong
- Simple future
- I’ll have to leave you
- Conditional type 0
- If he can hear you sing It’s an open door
- Relative clauses
- There’s not a rich man there Who couldn’t pay his way
Here is an excerpt from the song:
One day a friend took me aside
and said I have to leave you
for buying something from a friend
they say I’ve done wrong
for protecting the name of a man
they say I’ll have to leave you,
so now I’m bidding you farewell
for much too long.
Expressions that may be useful to students:
- Kiss someone farewell or bid someone farewell
- Judge
- a long prison sentence
- do the best you could
- kissed them farewell
- high price
- pay his way
Song’s Vocabulary Quiz
Complete the following sentences using the word in the list above:
- The __________ examined carefully the criminal’s case.
- After being found guilty, he was sentenced to a long time prison __________ for his crimes.
- Despite the difficult circumstances, you always tried to __________ in her job.
- As he boarded the plane, he turned to his family and __________, knowing he might not see them for a long time.
- Pursuing higher education often comes at a __________, but the benefits can be immense.
- He was able to __________ through college by working part-time jobs and applying for scholarships.
Conclusion
“Prison Song” by Graham Nash is not only a powerful piece of music but also an excellent choice for teaching English. Its deep meaning, combined with the simplicity of language, makes it memorable and impactful for learners. Through the story it tells, the song offers valuable lessons in vocabulary, grammar, and language structure, while also touching on themes of love, loss, and personal struggle.
By engaging with the lyrics of “Prison Song,” English learners can gain a deeper understanding of language usage and enhance their appreciation for music as a tool for language learning.
Source: Wikipedia
