Star Spangled Banner
Star Spangled Banner Lyrics

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Oh say can you see,
by the dawn's early light,
what so proudly we hailed,
at the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars,
through the perilous fight,
o'er the ramparts we watched,

were so gallantly streaming.

And the rocket's red glare,
the bombs bursting in air,
gave proof through the night,
that our flag was still there.

Oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave,
o'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of the Star Spangled Banner begin with a question, inviting the listener to envision a scene at dawn as the first light of day breaks. The imagery of the early morning conveys a sense of hope and renewal, prompting contemplation of a significant sight. The singer asks if the observer can see what they once celebrated with pride as the night faded away. This establishes a reflective tone, encouraging a moment of introspection and remembrance of past glories.

The second verse delves into the description of the American flag, highlighting its bold stripes and bright stars. These symbols, often associated with the American identity, are depicted as enduring through a challenging and perilous battle. The reference to "the perilous fight" evokes a sense of struggle and sacrifice, underscoring the resilience and bravery displayed in the face of adversity. The visual of the flag waving gallantly over the ramparts emphasizes the spirit of unity and perseverance in the midst of turmoil.

The following lines shift the focus to a dramatic scene of warfare, vividly capturing the chaos and intensity of conflict. The mention of "the rocket's red glare" and "the bombs bursting in air" conveys a sense of danger and violence, illustrating the harsh realities of warfare. Despite the tumultuous backdrop, the sight of the flag enduring through the night serves as a symbol of resilience and determination. This moment encapsulates the idea that amidst chaos and destruction, the essence of a nation's identity and values endures.

The final verse circles back to the original question posed, invoking a sense of national pride and unity. The concluding lines reaffirm the enduring nature of the star-spangled banner, symbolizing the enduring spirit of freedom and bravery. The mention of the "land of the free and the home of the brave" encapsulates the core values and ideals that the American flag represents. By posing the question once again, the lyrics prompt a contemplation of the ongoing relevance and significance of these symbols in the context of the nation's history and identity. The Star Spangled Banner ultimately emerges as a powerful anthem that celebrates the resilience, unity, and enduring spirit of the American people.

Line by Line Meaning

Oh say can you see,
Are you able to perceive?

by the dawn's early light,
during the early morning hours

what so proudly we hailed,
what we celebrated with pride

at the twilight's last gleaming?
as the day comes to an end

Whose broad stripes and bright stars,
the large stripes and shining stars of

through the perilous fight,
during the dangerous battle

o'er the ramparts we watched,
over the defenses we observed

were so gallantly streaming.
were elegantly waving.

And the rocket's red glare,
The red light of the rockets

the bombs bursting in air,
explosions in the sky

gave proof through the night,
showed through the darkness