Weekly Blog Post 5

Toby Keith's video and its lyrics are full of emotion. It isn't the kind of emotion you would expect, though, coming from a song with "American" in the title. Generally speaking, these songs are somewhat patriotic and full of nothing but pride to be in this nation of ours. This song, however, is full of nothing but what seems to be disgust almost. The emotion conveyed through these lyrics are not proud. They sound disappointed in what America has come to. This emotion, otherwise known as pathos, is something found in every form of communication.

In this particular video/song, Keith wants the viewers/listeners to notice all the things that are going wrong in our society in this day in age. “Winter gettin' colder/summer gettin' warmer/Tidal wave comin' cross the Mexican border/Why buy a gallon, it's cheaper by the barrel/Just don't get busted singin' christmas carols.” This section of lyrics is a perfect example of many things that are “going wrong” in our society. Now, some hear this song or see the video and are instantly offended and, in turn, dilike the song, or even the artist. Some, however, think this song is a great example of the things going wrong in society and like to use it as an example that proves a point. It is a hit or miss song, as it usual when it comes to songs of controversy.

Logos is also very apparent in this video/song. The way the words and verses are arranged makes the song very catchy and easy to listen to. Keith makes all the words fast and together in the same rhythm. They also have a tendency to rhyme in the AABB style. Lyrics that rhyme generally are more appealing to listeners because they are easier to remember. Keith also keeps the phrases short and generally doesn’t make a complete sentence or thought. They are generally just short statements. It is as if he just took major headlines and put them together in a song. This way of composition is a good way to keep listeners interested and keep them listening to the message in the song.