Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Beowulf Test Question
Many heros and historic eras are honored in poetry and in song. In your comment, please include a poem or song that reminds you of Beowulf, another character in his story, the Anglo-Saxon period, or a historical character or aspect from the Anglo-Saxon period. Please follow my example by including the song or poem, writer, performer (if it's a song), date published/performed, and explanation of why you made your choice. No repeats please (points taken off if yours is a repeated song or poem). My answer is posted below, but you should choose the comment button under this post to give your answer. Should you need more room to comment, please use more than one comment to do so. For example, my post was too long to include my answer, so I am including my answer in another post.
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Hero-Worship
A face seen passing in a crowded street,
A voice heard singing music, large and free;
And from that moment life is changed, and we
Become of more heroic temper, meet
To freely ask and give, a man complete
Radiant because of faith, we dare to be
What Nature meant us. Brave idolatry
Which can conceive a hero! No deceit,
No knowledge taught by unrelenting years,
Can quench this fierce, untamable desire.
We know that what we long for once achieved
Will cease to satisfy. Be still our fears;
If what we worship fail us, still the fire
Burns on, and it is much to have believed.
by Amy Lowell (published in 1905)
I chose the poem "Hero Woship" by Amy Lowell because to me this described the story of Beowulf when he was coming across sea to help the Danes fight Grendel exactly. It begins by explaining someone strange coming and that this strange person could be a life changing moment for them. They dared him to do something they could not and put all their faith in him. Just like the Danes believed in Beowulf. Then they go on saying that no one else could "quench this fierce untamable desire" which I am thinking is Grendel. And the Danes are scared that if "he" doesn't succeed they will be doomed. But as we know from reading Beowulf he does succeed.
Princes of the Universe by Queen (Written by Freddie Mercury and released December of 1986
Here we are, born to be kings
We're the princes of the universe
Here we belong, fighting to survive
In a world with the darkest powers,
And here we are, we're the princes of the universe
Here we belong, fighting for survival
We've come to be the rulers of you all
I am immortal, I have inside me blood of kings
I have no rival, no man can be my equal
Take me to the future of you all
Whenever I listen to this song, now that I've read Beowulf, that is what comes to mind now. To me, the lyrics of this song clearly represents the mentality of what I feel Beowulf had when he was alive. Being possibly the strongest man on earth in his time, Beowulf could definitely have been the Prince of the Universe. Also, the lyrics also have this very proud and boasting tone also. Needless to say, Beowulf really was a very prideful man in his superhuman strength. And now, because of his display of superhuman strength, his legend lives on, making him "immortal".
Handlebars by Flobots (March 5, 2008)
I can ride my bike with no handlebars
No handlebars
No handlebars
I can show you how to do-si-do
I can show you how to scratch a record
I can tie a knot in a cherry stem
I can tell you about Leif Ericson
I can do anything that I want cuz, look:
I can keep rhythm with no metronome
No metronome
No metronome
I can see your face on the telephone
On the telephone
On the telephone
Look at me
Look at me
Just called to say that it's good to be
ALIVE
I can do anything with no assistance
I can lead a nation with a microphone
With a microphone
With a microphone
Look at me
Look at me
Driving and I won't stop
And it feels so good to be
Alive and on top
My reach is global
My tower secure
My cause is noble
My power is pure
-------------------------------
This song by Flobots clearly depicts Beowulf's story and also the Anglo-Saxon idea of pride. In this song, the speaker speaks about all of the things he is able to do and pretty much summarizes that he can do anything that he wants to do, because he is a powerful person. This song can be linked to Beowulf because Beowulf also has this same mindset; he defeats Grendel, Grendel's mom, and then tries to defeat the dragon.
At one point in this song, the speaker says, "I can do anything with no assistance." We see this tremendously in Beowulf when he defeats Grendel by himself and Grendel's mom by himself without even the use of weapons.
The speaker in this poem also can be seen as very arrogant and boastful at times, both qualities which can be associated with our very own Beowulf. Overall, this song shows pride from the speaker, which was also a very important Anglo-Saxon value and ideal.
Our Last Night
"This Is Your Lifesaver" (Jan.2008)
Let's hope we call to them
Our dreams and our fears
We'll reach out our arms
To try to find something to love
There's always something to love
You'll reach out your arms
And find something you love
I swear, I swear you'll find it
I swear we all have it in us
And right now it's all we have
This is your lifesaver
This is your lifesaver
This is, this is your lifesaver
This is, this is your calling
When the water is pulling you in
Look to the clear skies above
When the water is pulling you in
Take a deep breath
Take a deep breath before you submerge
I swear we all have it in us
And right now it's all we have
This is your lifesaver
This is your lifesaver
I swear, I swear we all have it in us
I swear, I swear we all have it in us
Let's hope we call to them
Our dreams and our fears
We'll reach out our arms
And find something to love
We open our eyes to stare at the sun
Our ambitions should keep us turned away
Our hearts will show the way
I swear we all have it in us
And right now it's all we have
This is your lifesaver
This is your lifesaver
Stay awake
But don't stop dreaming
Promise me you won't stop dreaming
Stay awake
Believe me when I say,
Believe me when I say it's worth it
Stay awake
This song reminds me of Beowulf because Beowulf was a lifesaver for the Danes. Beowulf saved the Danes from Grendel and then once again from Grendel's mother. If it wasn't for Beowulf Grendel would still be terrorizing them. "When the water is pulling you in" reminds me of when Beowulf fought Grendels mother underwater. Also at the end, when they repeate "stay wake" this could be irony becuase Grendel and Grendel's mother both came into the kingdom at night and killed the Danes in their sleep.
With a purposeful grimace and a terrible sound
He pulls the spitting high tension wires down
Helpless people on a subway train
Scream bug-eyed as he looks in on them
He picks up a bus and he throws it back down
As he wades through the buildings toward the center of town
Oh no, they say he's got to go go go Godzilla
Oh no, there goes Tokyo go go Godzilla
History shows again and again
How nature points up the folly of men
by Blue Oyster Cult (released 1977)
I chose "Godzilla" by the Blue Oyster Cult because it relates heavily to Grendel from Beowulf. In the song, they talk about a monster that lots of people know as Godzilla. Godzilla spends his/her time terrorizing towns and killing people on subway trains. Grendel is similar to this because he spends his time killing the townsfolk and terrorizing the town. The song says "They say he's go to go...". The townsfolk feel the same way about Grendel, which is why they allow Beowulf to step in, which eventually leads to Grendel's death.
No World for Tomorrow
by Coheed and Cambria
October 2007
Wait! There's never been a mess like this.
Oh, no more hands to hold.
When the page turns tomorrow with the hurt to give up.
Curse us as God has (sold us)
Believe me, Hell has no room for your crime.
So beat me, till the blood and the bone finds our end near.
Bye, bye world, or will our hope still hold on?
Boy, you're never going see,
The things that will come of these (days.)
Raise your hands high!
Young brothers and sisters,
There's a world's worth of work and a need for you.
Oh, a change is coming, feel these doors now closing in.
Is there no world for tomorrow, if we wait for today?
So march to the drumming, show them you're coming.
You've been their play toy.
Cut to the carving,
Bleed them 'til robbing.
Enough! They'll take no more.
You've been given all the power, boy.
Now go and make your move.
Curse us, these Gods, aren't faking.
Have mercy on the cowards, boy.
They'll pray to have you lose.
Help us, this world's now breaking.
So now they've noticed all you've given in sound.
Let us in. Let us in.
Give me love over life, the sweet soft of ground.
Let us in. Let us in now.
Bye, bye world, or will our hope still hold on?
Boy, you're never going see,
The things that will come of these (days.)
Raise your hands high!
Young brothers and sisters,
There's a world's worth of work and a need for you.
Oh, a change is coming, feel these doors now closing in.
Is there no world for tomorrow, if we wait for today?
So march to the drumming, show them you're coming.
You've been their play toy.
Cut to the carving,
Bleed them 'til robbing.
Enough! They'll take no more.
In the light we'll sing, as all hurt must bring.
In the falling cusp of all broken things.
In the coming dusk, you will call on us and unite we must.
I'm the Crowing fly!
You all think you've figured me out. Do as I say!
Your words mean nothing at all, so now I lay.
I said, "Come, Momma! Come, Momma! As I need."
I said, "Come, Momma! Come, Momma! We'll watch you bleed."
What did I do to deserve all of this?
What did I do to deserve all of you?
Raise your hands high!
Young brothers and sisters,
There's a world's worth of work and a need for you.
Oh, a change is coming, feel these doors now closing in.
Is there no world for tomorrow, if we wait for today?
Bye, bye world. Or will our hope still hold on?
--------
I chose No World for Tomorrow by Coheed and Cambria because I think that there is many verses in the song that depicts different instances within the epic of Beowulf. In the first couple of verses, I think that it strongly describes how the people of the Danes have no more hope after being terrorized by Grendel. Then in the verse where they say "Enough! They'll take no more," I think that this shows how the people are finally beginning to fight back with Beowulf and that they won't put up with him anymore. Also in that verse they say "March to the drumming, show them you're coming," and I think that is when Grendel is going to Heorot to kill the people celebrating. There are also many other instances in the song where it describes different parts of the story, including the killing of Grendel's mother.
Sound of Madness, written and performed by Shinedown, released on April 23, 2008
Yeah, I get it,
You're an outcast.
Always under attack.
Always coming in last,
Bringing up the past.
No one owes you anything.
I think you need a shotgun blast,
A kick in the a**,
So paranoid. . .
Watch your back!!
Oh my, here we go...
Another lose cannon gone bi-polar
Slipped down, couldn't get much lower.
Quicksand's got no sense of humor.
I'm still laughing like hell.
You think that the cryin to me,
Looking so sorry that I'm gonna believe,
You've been infected by a social disease.
Well, then take your medicine.
[Chorus]
I created the Sound of Madness.
Wrote the book on pain.
Somehow I'm still here,
To explain,
That the darkest hour never comes in the night.
You can sleep with a gun.
When you gonna wake up and fight... for yourself?
I'm so sick of this tombstone mentality,
If there's an afterlife,
Then it'll set you free.
But I'm not gonna part the seas
You're a self-fulfilling prophecy.
You think that cryin to me,
Looking so sorry that I'm gonna believe,
You've been infected by a social disease.
Well, then take your medicine.
[Chorus]
I created the Sound of Madness.
Wrote the book on pain.
Somehow I'm still here,
To explain,
That the darkest hour never comes in the night.
You can sleep with a gun.
When you gonna wake up and fight... for yourself?
I created the Sound of Madness.
Wrote the book on pain.
Somehow I'm still here,
To explain,
That the darkest hour never comes in the night.
You can sleep with a gun.
When you gonna wake up...
When you gonna wake up and fight...
I created the Sound of Madness.
Wrote the book on pain.
Somehow I'm still here,
To explain,
That the darkest hour never comes in the night.
You can sleep with a gun.
When you gonna wake up and fight... for yourself?
When you gonna wake up and fight... for yourself? [x3]
I chose Sound of Madness by Shinedown because it seems to fit the general attitude of the story of Beowulf. First of all, it is a loud song so it gives off that intense battle feeling. But certain lyrics grab my attention, as well. The words "I created the Sound of Madness, wrote the book on pain, somehow I'm still here to explain" seem to fit Grendel perfectly. I could easily picture him saying he created the sound of madness, and he may be shocked as much as the others that he has not been killed yet, since many have tried ("somehow I'm still here to explain"). Other parts of the song are telling whoever the recipient of these words is to get up and fight for themselves and not to expect sympathy for crying or praying for the fighting or attacks to stop, which is what Hrothgar was doing in desperation. I feel this song is a perfect fit.
“Becoming the Bull” written and performed by Atreyu (2007)
Come on!!!
Grab the bull by the horns the old adage goes.
Nobody tells you where to go from there.
Seems like fate's pulling you.
Decisions have to be made.
The best path is the hardest earned.
Back and forth the struggle consumes us all.
Trying to keep a level head.
In the most unsettling of times.
Today I'll become the bull.
There is so much to stake.
I stumble I lose my place.
Pride and arrogance surrounded by sin.
Destiny takes its hold.
Fight it or let it go.
But I choose how the day will end.
Back and forth the struggle consumes us all.
Trying to keep a level head.
In the most unsettling of times.
Today I become the bull. [x2]
This walk can get lonely.
I lose myself inside my head.
No one can touch you when you're outside staring in.
Remove myself from this rat race.
Back and forth the struggle consumes us all.
Trying to keep a level head.
In the most unsettling of times.
Today I become the bull. [x5]
I think this song fits Beowulf because the person in the song is trying to build up courage. The song is about just “grabbing the bull by the horns” and being able to over come struggles, Beowulf’s being the fight against the monsters. The line “decisions have to be made” can be tied to him when he is in battle he has to make on the spot decisions. The song also states “trying to keep a level head in the most unsettling of times” which is one thing he would have defiantly needed to fight Grendel considering he had to pretend to be sleeping he couldn’t hide or panic once he began; and that would defiantly be considered an “unsettling time”. It also says “There is so much at stake” meaning there is a lot that is depending on him winning including many lives. And even further when they say “I stumble I lose my place” it shows one misstep could end badly for Beowulf. Also “pride and arrogance” is mentioned and those are characteristics in which Beowulf defiantly has whether that is a good or bad thing. Further on it states “Destiny takes it hold” which could be tied to the fact that he decided to not wear armor which resulted in him being at a loss “but I will choose how the day will end” showing just because destiny wants something else to happen he is going to fight destiny. “I lose myself inside my head” could mean that because everyone looks up to him, it has gotten inside his head and he doesn’t really know who he is because he only knows who people want him to be. Then at the end it says “Remove myself from this rat race” which is like when he removes himself from power and life because he decides to fight in the end knowing that his time has come.
"Heroes Get Remembered, But Legends Never Die" by Four Year Strong (originally created as "Heroes Fade Kid, Legends Never Die", but was reworked and released on September 18, 2007)
Oh, something tells me
I'm never gone live this one down
But I'll try
I'm gonna need a quick hand,
A sharp eye, a smooth talker
Just to play this one out to the very end.
And this is where you come in
I know, that I could count on you to walk me through
And I'm making sure that anyone whos anyone
Can be the someone that they've always wanted to.
If I couldn't get away with anything
Then how in the hell did I get here
Say something. Say something. Say anything.
You were never the one to have something to say.
Say something. say something. say anything.
I've seen the best and worst of you
But we're sticking through
Cause without all of the ups and downs
We've been through
You know that its true
That I could really get sick and tired of you.
Oh, something tells me
I'm never gonna live this one down
But I'm down and out
Cause if the tensions light as a feather
Then I'd be bored stiff
We gotta mix things up a bit to keep up my interest
Sad enough to say that
Alone I could barely light a match
But together we can burn this place down.
Sorry about the mess
But when we team up
We always seem to bring this place to the ground
And this is where you come in
I know, that I could count on you to walk me through
And I'm making sure that everyone whos anyone
Can be the someone that they've always wanted to.
I've seen the best and worst of you
But we're sticking through
Cause without all of the ups and downs
We've been through
You know that its true
That I could get really sick and tired of you. [x2]
Sad enough to say that
Alone I could barely light a match
But together we can burn this place down. [x5]
Sorry about the mess
But when we team up, team up
We always seem to bring this place to the ground
I've seen the best and worst of you
But we're sticking through
Cause without all of the ups and downs
We've been through
You know that its true
That I could really be sick and tired of you[x2]
I chose Heroes Get Remembered, But Legends Never Die by Four Year Strong because it relates to Beowulfe in multiple ways. The name of the song depicts Beowulf as not a hero but a legend, because his story has lived on for so long."Oh, something tells me
I'm never gonna live this one down" related to Beowulf becuase he knew he would be famous for slaying the beast Grendel. There are also multiple references in the song to companionship. I believe that although Beowulf fought alone, his companion was evil forces. If there was nothing for him to fight, he would have been bored and there would be no story about him. Therefore, I believe Beowulf could 'really never get sick and tired' of defeating monsters.
The Worlds Greatest by R. Kelly(written in 2001)
I am a mountain
I am a tall tree
Ohhh, I am a swift wind
Sweepin' the country
I am a river
Down in the valley
Ohhh, I am a vision
And I can see clearly
If anybody asks u who I am
Just stand up tall look 'em in the Face and say
[Chorus]
I'm that star up in the sky
I'm that mountain peak up high
Hey, I made it
I'm the worlds greatest
And I'm that little bit of hope
When my backs against the ropes
I can feel it mmm
I'm the worlds greatest
I am a giant
I am an eagle
I am a lion
Down in the jungle
I am a marchin' band
I am the people
I am a helpin' hand
And I am a hero
If anybody asks u who I am
Just stand up tall look 'em in the Face and say
[Chorus]
I'm that star up in the sky
I'm that mountain peak up high
I made it
I'm the worlds greatest
And I'm that little bit of hope
When my backs against the ropes
I can feel it
I'm the worlds greatest
In the ring of life I'll reign love
And the world will notice a king
When all is darkest, I'll shine a light
And use a success you'll find in me
I'm that star up in the sky
I'm that mountain peak up high
Hey, I made it
I'm the world's greatest
And I'm that little bit of hope
When my back's against the ropes
I can feel it
I'm the world's greatest
I'm that star up in the sky
I'm that mountain peak up high
Hey, I made it
I'm the world's greatest
And I'm that little bit of hope
When my back's against the ropes
I can feel it
I'm the world's greatest
I'm that star up in the sky
I'm that mountain peak up high
Hey, I made it
I'm the world's greatest
And I'm that little bit of hope
When my back's against the ropes
I can feel it
I'm the world's greatest
I chose the Worlds greatest by R. Kelly because Beowulf was known as a legend after he battled Grendel and his mother. He was looked upon as one of the greatest people of that time era. People worshiped the ground he walked on because he took on such a powerful creature that only he could defeat and thats what made him the greatest. The line in verse two, "I am a helpin' hand
And I am a hero" relates to Beowulf because Beowulf volunteered to do the deed on his own and he ended up being the hero in the end and acheiving the title of the worlds greatest.
Sunday Bloody Sunday
By U2
Published in 1983
Broken bottles under children’s feet
Bodies strewn across the dead end street
But I wont heed the battle call
It puts my back up
Puts my back up against the wall
Sunday, bloody Sunday
Sunday, bloody Sunday
And the battles just begun
There’s many lost, but tell me who has won
The trench is dug within our hearts
And mothers, children, brothers, sisters torn apart
Sunday, bloody Sunday
Sunday, bloody Sunday
Wipe the tears from your eyes
Wipe your tears away
Wipe your tears away
I wipe your tears away
(Sunday, bloody Sunday)
I wipe your blood shot eyes
(Sunday, bloody Sunday)
The real battle yet begun (Sunday, bloody Sunday)
To claim the victory Jesus won (Sunday, bloody Sunday)
I chose this song because it represents the chaos that Grendel was causing at the Heorot to Hrothgar's warriors. Many of his followers died from the unstoppable monster. Even more deaths occurred when Grendel's mother killed more warriors. There was much blood involved in these killings, which reminded me of the song "Sunday Bloody Sunday."
This War Is Ours- by Escape The Fate (2008)
We have to find a better way
Out of this tragedy
As the battle rages on
Blood Strikes the clabbered hood
My ears they hurt
Great soldiers are dying
What part is this alone
You Shoot
This War is Ours
This war is ours
Yes, I will see you through the smoke and flames
On the frontlines of war (We have to find a better way)
And I will stand my ground until the end
till we conquer them all (we have to find a better way)
Oh
Through the fire and the flames
we are dead time bid its stay
We march the fight into the cold
you shoot it as far as it will go
the middle is a covered hill
this is where we conquer them
arm the cannon with a shot
This war is ours, yeah
this war is ours
Yes, I will see you through the smoke and flames
On the front lines of war (We have to find a better way)
And I will stand my ground until the end
till we conquer them all (we have to find a better way)
till we conquer them all
Oh
Yes, I will need you through the smoke and flames
On the front lines of war
And I will stand my ground until the end till we conquer them all
We will conquer them all
We will conquer them all
We will conquer them all
Oh
This war is ours. Yeah
This war is ours
Yes, I will see you through the smoke and flames
On the front lines of war
And I will stand my ground until the end
till we conquer them all
Oh
So I will fight my battle till I fall
and I conquer them all
till we conquer them all
I chose this song This War Is Ours by Escape the Fate becuase I feel it connects to the story in the sense that Beowulf felt like he had to fight Grendel, Grendel's mom and the Dragon for the Danes. I feel as if it Beowulf is almost speaking to the people telling them not to worry, and it is their war they are fighting now that he has come to help. It says "I will see you through smoke and flames", and I can picture Beowulf saying that to the Danes convincing them that it will be okay now that he is there. Also when it says at the end of the song "So I will fight my battle until I fall" and "I will stand my ground until the end" this applies to Beowulf as well because that is infact what he did. He fought each battle until the last one eventually led to his fall, and he stood his ground by never giving up for the people who needed him.
Holding Out for a Hero
By Bonnie Tyler
Written by Jim Steinman and Dean Pitchford
Published in 1984
Where have all the good men gone
And where are all the gods?
Where's the street-wise Hercules
To fight the rising odds?
Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery steed?
Late at night I toss and turn and dream
of what I need
[Chorus]
I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night
He's gotta be strong
And he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light
He's gotta be sure
And it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life
-------------------------------
I chose this song because I was in my car thinking about the project and this song happened to come through my speakers. Listening to the lyrics it really relates to Beowulf. The Danes were desperate; Grendel was destrying them and there was nothing they could do. The lyrics talk about how badly the girl needs a hero to come and save her. It is the same way for the Danes, they need someone to come and help them. I also think that the chorus of the song really describes Beowulf. It says "He's gotta be strong
And he's gotta be fast...And he's gotta be larger than life" Beowulf possesed both of those traits and he did consider himslef to be larger than life. I really feel that this song captures the trouble the Danes were in and some of the qualities of Beowulf.
Cuts Marked in the March of Men
by Coheed and Cambria
Listen to the world out on the outside pressing in
are you ready on my mark?
fingers given names and with the last word they ascend
on the comfort of their well being...in arms
into something they can't stop but wish that they could kill
you're the answer to their prayer
[Chorus:]
in your last hour stand
you'll notice the one that you had loved in dreams is here among the others
chase it's you I want but if I can't have her
then why should I spend any more time in a world that's going to end pretty soon?
I need you now more than I ever did
I'll hand myself over for you
this comlink's lost its frequency and I feel that we're coming home short
here take me instead I'd rather not see her off alone
scattered amongst the killing streets the children slate defense
is god's work to have us fail?
rivered blood streams out the dead as bodies foul the air
I'll make peace when this is done
in arms...we storm
slowly the streets begin to fill with new flesh bound to bone
armed and ready it begins again...
[Chorus]
tonight we storm
tonight...
While this song talks about a girl, there are lines in it that remind me of Beowulf. the first line "Listen to the world out on the outside pressing in" reminds me of how while Beowulf wasnt from Denmark he listened outside of his country to help the Danes. Also, the line "into something they can't stop but wish that they could kill
you're the answer to their prayer" is jsut like how Grendel couldnt be stopped by the Danes, but he could be stopped by Beowulf, so he was the answer to their prayers for help. The last paragraph reminds me of the Dragon, and how he destroyed Beowulfs city. In the last paragraph they say, "in arms...we storm" and in the battle with the Dragon Beowulf and his men used weapons.
Finally the line, "I'll make peace when this is done" reminds me of how Beowulf can never rest until he has saved people from Grendel, Grendels mom, and the dragon.
Kryptonite by 3 Doors Down
Written by Matt Roberts, Todd Harrell, and Brad Arnold.
(Released in 2000)
You called me strong, you called me weak
But your secrets I will keep
You took for granted all the times I
Never let you down
You stumbled in and bumped your head, if
Not for me then you would be dead
I picked you up and put you back
On solid ground
If I go crazy then will you still
Call me Superman
If I'm alive and well will you be
There holding my hand
I'll keep you by my side with my
Superhuman might
Kryptonite
I believe that this song is an anthem to Beowulf's life. The lyrics to this song, "You stumbled in and bumped your head, if
not for me then you would be dead.
I picked you up and put you back
on solid ground" resemble Beowulf's life in that he had to save the many citizens from Grendel's wrath that he had provoked upon their dwelling. Beowulf stepped in to save the people. If not for him, they would have been dead. The song also has to do with how Beowulf, like any other hero, had a weakness of being a mere mortal. He needed the support of others in order to get the strength to kill the two monsters.
Steve Sughrue
My Hero, Foo Fighters
Too alarming now to talk about
Take your pictures down and shake it out. Truth or consequence, say it aloud Use that evidence, race it around
There goes my hero
Watch him as he goes
There goes my hero
Hes ordinary
Dont the best of them bleed it out
While the rest of them peter out
Truth or consequence, say it aloud
Use that evidence, race it around
I picked this song for a couple of reasons. One reason I decided this song was because of the line ( Dont the best of them bleed it out While the rest of them peter out.) This reminds me of how Beowulf dies at the end of the story. While he bleeds it out and dies the rest peter out and are never heard of again. Also, the verse itself is symbolic to Beowulf. He is a hero in the people's eyes, but he is just a human and humans are ordinary. In the lines that say (Truth or consequence, say it aloud Use that evidence, race it around.) I believe where it talks about using the evidence and spreading it around. This reminds me of when Beowuld tells the sea dragon story so everyone realizes how much more superior he is to them.
Wind Beneath My Wings- Beth Midler
Ohhhh, oh, oh, oh, ohhh.
It must have been cold there in my shadow,
to never have sunlight on your face.
You were content to let me shine, that's your way.
You always walked a step behind.
So I was the one with all the glory,
while you were the one with all the strain.
A beautiful face without a name for so long.
A beautiful smile to hide the pain.
Did you ever know that you're my hero,
and everything I would like to be?
I can fly higher than an eagle,
for you are the wind beneath my wings.
It might have appeared to go unnoticed,
but I've got it all here in my heart.
I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it.
I would be nothing without you.
Did you ever know that you're my hero?
You're everything I wish I could be.
I could fly higher than an eagle,
for you are the wind beneath my wings.
Did I ever tell you you're my hero?
You're everything, everything I wish I could be.
Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle,
for you are the wind beneath my wings,
'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, the wind beneath my wings.
You, you, you, you are the wind beneath my wings.
Fly, fly, fly away. You let me fly so high.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Fly, fly, fly high against the sky,
so high I almost touch the sky.
Thank you, thank you,
thank God for you, the wind beneath my wings.
This song reminds me of Beowulf because he was a hero to many in the novel. Beowulf helped save the Danes from Grendel and Grendels mom who together terrorized and stole the lifes of many Danes.The song also reminds me of the relationship between beowulf and King Hrothgar. "It might have appeared to go unnoticed,
but I've got it all here in my heart" The king ws very greatful for Beowulf's deeds.
My Way by Frank Sinatra
And now, the end is near;
And so I face the final curtain.
My friend, Ill say it clear,
Ill state my case, of which Im certain.
Ive lived a life thats full.
Ive traveled each and evry highway;
And more, much more than this,
I did it my way.
Regrets, Ive had a few;
But then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption.
I planned each charted course;
Each careful step along the byway,
But more, much more than this,
I did it my way.
Yes, there were times, Im sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew.
But through it all, when there was doubt,
I ate it up and spit it out.
I faced it all and I stood tall;
And did it my way.
Ive loved, Ive laughed and cried.
Ive had my fill; my share of losing.
And now, as tears subside,
I find it all so amusing.
To think I did all that;
And may I say - not in a shy way,
No, oh no not me,
I did it my way.
For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels;
And not the words of one who kneels.
The record shows I took the blows -
And did it my way!
______________________________
When I first read the question, I took time to reflect on what type of character Beowulf was. Almost immediately, I thought of this song. Beowulf is the type of character who will make their own choices. Even though he was given advice, he decided against it to do things the way he wanted to do them. Also, the song talks about how he had a great life, and how he has few regrets. In my opinion, I believe it represents Beowulf's mentality and pride.
Lyrics to We Are The Champions :
I've paid my dues
Time after time
I've done my sentence
But committed no crime
And bad mistakes
I've made a few
I've had my share of sand
Kicked in my face
But I've come through
And we mean to go on and on and on and on
We are the champions - my friends
And we'll keep on fighting
Till the end
We are the champions
We are the champions
No time for losers
'Cause we are the champions of the World
I've taken my bows
And my curtain calls
You brought me fame and fortune
And everything that goes with it
I thank you all
But it's been no bed of roses
No pleasure cruise
I consider it a challenge before
The whole human race
And I ain't gonna lose
And we mean to go on and on and on and on
We are the champions - my friends
And we'll keep on fighting
Till the end
We are the champions
We are the champions
No time for losers
'Cause we are the champions of the World
We are the champions - my friends
And we'll keep on fighting
Till the end
We are the champions
We are the champions
No time for losers
'Cause we are the champions
~~~~~
I thought that the song We are the Champions by Queen reminded me alot of the attitude Beowulf had throughtout the whole book. Also in the line "And we'll keep on fighting Till the end" reminds be on how Beowulf did keep fighting till the end. The line " You brought me fame and fortune
And everything that goes with it" reminds me on how everyone looked at him as if he was famous for killing grendal.
I, I will be king
And you, you will be queen
Though nothing will drive them away
We can beat them, just for one day
We can be heroes, just for one day
And you, you can be mean
And I, I'll drink all the time
'Cause we're lovers, and that is a fact
Yes we're lovers, and that is that
Though nothing will keep us together
We could steal time just for one day
We can be heroes for ever and ever
What d'you say?
I, I wish you could swim
Like the dolphins, like dolphins can swim
Though nothing, nothing will keep us together
We can beat them, for ever and ever
Oh we can be Heroes, just for one day
I, I will be king
And you, you will be queen
Though nothing will drive them away
We can be Heroes, just for one day
We can be us, just for one day
I, I can remember (I remember)
Standing, by the wall (by the wall)
And the guns, shot above our heads (over our heads)
And we kissed, as though nothing could fall (nothing could fall)
And the shame, was on the other side
Oh we can beat them, for ever and ever
Then we could be Heroes, just for one day
We can be Heroes
We can be Heroes
We can be Heroes
Just for one day
We can be Heroes
We're nothing, and nothing will help us
Maybe we're lying, then you better not stay
But we could be safer, just for one day
Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh, just for one day
--> David Bowie Heroes (1977)
I chose this song, Heroes, by David Bowie because I really think it does a great job at describing Beowulf. If you listen to the song it's both nostalgic and exciting. I think in the very start of the song where he says, "Though nothing will drive them away
We can beat them, just for one day" does a good job at describing Beowulf at the start of the story. He never started this mission with Grendel thinking he'd go down as a famous fighter and leader, he was just looking to beat the monster.The fact that he was willing to take on such a large task shows his strength and determination. And then at the end of the song, "But we could be safer, just for one day" reminds me of how he went after Grendel, only to realize he must be Grendel's mother right after. But for one day, while Grendel was dead, the town was safe from harm. Beowulf defeated both monsters, and therefor "We can be heroes for ever and ever" has to do with the fact that the Anglo Saxons believed in reaching immortality through fame.
"Citizen/Soldier" by 3 Doors Down
Written by 3 Doors Down in November 2007
Beyond the boundaries of your city's lights,
Stand the heroes waiting for your cries.
So many times you did not bring this on yourself,
When that moment finally comes,
I'll be there to help.
On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here.
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.
When there are people crying in the streets,
When they're starving for a meal to eat,
When they simply need a place to make their beds,
Right here underneath my wing,
You can rest your head.
On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here!
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there...
There... there... there...
Hope and pray that you'll never need me,
But rest assured I will not let you down.
I'll walk beside you but you may not see me,
The strongest among you may not wear a crown.
On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here!
On that day when you don't have the strength for the burden you bear,
I'll be right here!
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
(Citizen soldiers)
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.
-----------------------------------
I chose "Citizen/Soldier" by 3 Doors Down because I heard many connections to Beowulf when I listened to it. For example, Hrothgar knew that, though he was king of the Danes, "the strongest among [his people] may not wear a crown." Beowulf guided Hrothgar's people from "the dark of dispair" and everyone knew that Beowulf would not let them down. Beowulf was "always ready" to fight and was "always there" when he was needed. Everyone trusted Beowulf to protect them, just as the soldiers in this song are trusted.
I Won't Back Down by Tom Petty. Written by Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne, released in April 1989
Well I won't back down, no I won't back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down
Gonna stand my ground, won't be turned around
And I'll keep this world from draggin' me down
Gonna stand my ground and I won't back down
Hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
Hey I will stand my ground
And I won't back down.
Well I know what's right, I got just one life
In a world that keeps on pushin' me around
But I'll stand my ground and I won't back down
Hey baby there ain't no easy way out
Hey I will stand my ground
And I won't back down
No, I won't back down
This song relates to Beowulf because Beowulf was the leader that never quit and never said no. He did not back down from Grendel or Grendel's mother. He stood his ground and fought for himself and his fellow troops.
In the song Petty says, "You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down". This reminds me of Beowulf because Grendel is described in the poem as a "fiend from hell" and when Beowulf fights Grendel it is almost as if he is standing at the gates of hell. And once again Beowulf did not back down.
Let it Rock by Kevin Rudolf
Written by: K. Rudolf & D. CARTER
Release Date: July 29, 2008
I see your dirty face
High behind your collar
What is done in vain
Truth is hard to swallow
So you pray to God
To justify the way you live a lie
Live a lie
Live a lie
And you take your time
And you do your crime
Well you made your bed
I made mine
Because when I arrive
I, I bring the fire
Make you come alive
I can take you higher
what is this, forgot?
I must now remind you
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Now the son's disgrased
He, who knew his father
When he cursed his name
Turned, and chased the dollar
But it broke his heart
So he stuck his middle finger
To the world
To the world
To the world
And you take your time
And you stand in line
Well you'll get what's yours
I got mine
Because when I arrive
I, I bring the fire
Make you come alive
I can take you higher
what is this, forgot?
I must now remind you
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
------
I chose this song because it reminds me of Beowulf’s mentality, especially towards Grendel. The first verse is what was going through Beowulf’s mind after Grendel kills the first man in the mead hall. He is disgusted by the monster and knows he can beat it. The pre-chorus is what was going through Beowulf’s mind when he grabbed Grendel and began fighting him with his bare hands. Beowulf is displaying the fact that he knows he will beat Grendel and that Grendel brought it upon himself. The second verse describes Grendel’s mentality as he runs away to die after his claw is chopped off. He had taken advantage of the humans for such a long time and it finally backfired on him. It would be his last emotion or gesture towards the humans. Finally, the chorus describes Beowulf’s ego. He knew that when he walked into a room, people stopped to listen. He was treated like a rock star wherever he went, and nobody ever forgot his legacy.
John Mayer
Bigger Than My Body
This is a call to the colorblind
This is an IOU
I'm stranded behind the horizon line
Tied up in something tied up in something true
Yes I’m grounded
Got my wings clipped
I'm surrounded
By all this pavement
Guess I’ll circle
While I’m waiting
For my fuse to dry
Someday I’ll fly,
Someday I’ll soar
Someday I’ll be so damn much more
''cause I’m bigger than my body gives me credit for
Why is it not my time
What is there more to learn
I’ve she'd this skin I’ve been tripping in
Never to quite return
Yes I’m grounded
Got my wings clipped
I'm surrounded
By all this pavement
Guess I’ll circle
While I’m waiting
For my fuse to dry
Someday I’ll fly,
Someday I’ll soar
Someday I’ll be so damn much more
''cause I’m bigger than my body gives me credit for
'cause I’m bigger than my body now
(guitar solo)
Maybe, I’ll tangle in the power lines
And it might be over in a seconds time
But I’ll gladly go down in a flame if a flames what it takes to remember my name
Yes I’m grounded
Got my wings clipped
I'm surrounded
By all this pavement
Guess I’ll circle
While I’m waiting
For my fuse to dry
Someday I’ll fly,
Someday I’ll soar
Someday I’ll be so damn much more
''cause I’m bigger than my body gives me credit for
This song reminds me of the Anglo-Saxons idea of immortality. That what they do in their life is to try and become something bigger than their body and be remembered forever. The line “…bigger than my body gives me credit for.” Reminds me of Beowulf because he is more than just a man. He is like a god to all the people because of all the stories that they have heard of him. “Why is it not my time, what is there more to learn.” This sounds like something Beowulf could have been thinking in all his battles, he had fought so many monsters and it seemed like it would never end until he fights the dragon at the end and dies. After his death Beowulf is remembered making him bigger then his body.
The Death of Beowulf-Folkearth (August 1, 2006)
Where now is the hero
Where is thy singing sword
That spelled the bane of dragons
And sent the ogress to hell
Beowulf – these lands will miss you!
Never again to Denmark shall youreturn
Beowulf – the valkyries doth kiss you!
The fire has left his eyes
Then rain afterwards came
To gently wash the blood away
His noble features so pale to lay
Beowulf – these lands will miss you!
Never again to Denmark shall youreturn
Beowulf – the valkyries doth kiss you!
In the end he overcame
Victory for the brave
Glory, majesty – eternal hail!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl8DjjRHYZ0
I chose this song becuse it is about Beowulf and his death. It tells how he died fighting a courageous battle. It tells how everyone will miss him because he was such a worshipped hero. The song helps us to visualize his death when it says the rain came and washed away his blood. It gives a good sence of his valor and glory.
Zero to Hero
Bless my soul
Herc was on a roll
Person of the week in ev'ry Greek opinion poll
What a pro
Herc could stop a show
Point him at a monster
and you're talkin' S.R.O.
He was a no one
A zero, zero
Now he's a honcho
He's a hero
Herc was a kid with his
act down pat
From zero to hero
in no time flat
Zero to hero
just like that
When he smiled
The grils went wild with
oohs and aahs
And they slapped his face
On ev'ry vase
(on ev'ry "vahse")
From appearance fees
and royalties
Our Herc had cash
to burn
Now nouveau riche
an' famous
He could tell you
What's a Grecian urn?
Say amen
There he goes again
Sweet and undefeated
And an awesome 10 for 10
Folks lined up
Just to watch him flex
And this perfect package
packed a pair of pretty pecs
Hercie, he comes
He sees, he conquers
Honey, the crowds were Going bonkers
He showed the moxie
brains, and spunk
From zero to hero
a major hunk
Zero to hero
and who'da thunk
Who put the glad
in gladiator?
Hercules!
Whose daring deeds are
great the-a-tre?
Hercules!
Is he bold?
No one braver
Is he sweet?
Our fav'rite flavor
Hercules, Hercules...
Bless my soul
Herc was on a roll
Undefeated
Riding high
And the nicest guy
Not conceited
He was a nothin'
a zero, zero
Now he's a honcho
He's a hero
He hit the heights at
breakneck speed
From zero to hero
Herc is a hero
Now he's a hero
Yes, indeed!
Zero to Hero
Artist: Disney Hercules Soundtrack (1997)
I chose this song because I thought that you could easily substitute Beowulf’s name for that of Hercules’. I feel like this song defines Beowulf. Beowulf was a hero in his own time and this song praises those heroes. This song talks about pitting that hero against a monster and in the book Beowulf was put up against not one but two monsters. One of the lines from the song is “say amen there he goes again sweet and undefeated and an awesome 10 for 10”, when Beowulf first arrived in the land of the Danes the king told him that he knew of his reputation and how he had defeated all of his foes remaining undefeated. The song also talks about Hercules or for our own purposes Beowulf and how he was rich and famous and after Beowulf defeated Grendel and Grendel’s mother he became an even bigger hero than he was before. In addition we know that Beowulf had great physical strength and the song also says, “folks lined up just to watch him flex” it was partly his physical strength that aided him in achieving victory over Grendel but it was also his resourcefulness and as this song would put it, moxie “He showed the moxie, brains, and spunk”. Finally, the song mentions “daring deeds” and I do not think that there was a more daring deed than fighting a monster alone and exposed. Overall this song just talks about someone who is a hero and that was ultimately what Beowulf was a daring and strong man worthy enough to be called a hero.
Slipknot - Duality (June 14, 2004)
I push my fingers into my eyes...
It's the only thing that slowly stops the ache...
But it's made of all the things I have to take...
Jesus, it never ends, it works it's way inside...
If the pain goes on...
Aaaaaaaah!
I have screamed until my veins collapsed
I've waited as my time's elapsed
Now, all I do is live with so much hate
I've wished for this, I've bitched at that
I've left behind this little fact:
You cannot kill what you did not create
I've gotta say what I've gotta say
And then I swear I'll go away
But I can't promise you'll enjoy the noise
I guess I'll save the best for last
My future seems like one big past
You're left with me 'cause you left me no choice
I push my fingers into my eyes
It's the only thing that slowly stops the ache
If the pain goes on,
I'm not gonna make it!
Put me back together
Or separate the skin from bone
Leave me all the Pieces, then you can leave me alone
Tell me the reality is better than the dream
But I found out the hard way,
Nothing is what it seems!
I push my fingers into my eyes
It's the only thing that slowly stops the ache
But it's made of all the things I have to take
Jesus, it never ends, it works it's way inside
If the pain goes on,
I'm not gonna make it!
All I've got...all I've got is insane...
All I've got...all I've got is insane...
All I've got...all I've got is insane!
All I've got...all I've got is insane!
I push my fingers into my eyes
It's the only thing that slowly stops the ache
But it's made of all the things I have to take
Jesus, it never ends, it works it's way inside
If the pain goes on,
I'm not gonna make it!
I chose duality by slipknot becuase the beat and tone of the song relates to Beowulf's battles. The song starts off at a particularly slow pace, but then picks up towards the middle and the end. This change in tone signifies Beowulf's battles vs. Grendel and his mother, and then Beowulf's last and most intense battle vs. the dragon. The lyrics "things I have to take...
Jesus, it never ends, it works it's way inside...
If the pain goes on..." signifies the pain that Beowulf felt during these battles, however Beowulf knew that he "has to take" it and continue fighting. Beowulf also "found out the hard way" when he found the dragon and was killed. Another reason this is a good song becuase it would make a good background song to the battles Beowulf fought with the songs screaming and angry tone.
TROGDOR! by The Brothers Chaps
TROGDOR!
Trogdor was a man!
I mean, he was a dragon-man!
Or maybe he was just a dragon!
But he was still TROGDOR!
TROGDOR!
Burninating the countryside!
Burninating the peasants!
Burninating all the peoples!
And their thatched-roof COTTAGES!
THATCHED-ROOF COTTAGES!
When all the land is in ruin,
And burnination has forsaken the countryside,
Only one guy will remain.
My money's on TROGDOR!
TROGDOR!
And the Trogdor comes in the NIIIIIIIIIIIGHT!!!!!
TROGDOR! by The Brothers Chaps sprung to mind as soon as this was assigned ,partly owing to the way it parodies the influence that stories like Beowulf have had on some musicians.
This song could relate to any of the creatures in the story, but the most obvious connection is to the dragon for the stories finale because in the titular Torgdor is a (fake) legendary beast who would have been as fear as many monster in Beowulf’s time,
In the section that begins "Burninating the countryside!" that could stand in for the dragon’s wrath towards the end of the book, in which it seeks revenge after some of its treasure (a chalice) is stolen.
Hero by Mariah Carey (Written by Mariah Carey and released October of 1993)
There's a hero if you look inside your heart
You don't have to be afraid of what you are.
There's an answer if you reach into your soul
and the sorrow that you know will melt away
And then a hero comes along
with the strength to carry on
and you cast your fears aside
and you know you can survive.
So, when you feel like hope is gone
look inside you and be strong
and you'll finally see the truth
that a hero lies in you.
It's a long road when you face the world alone;
No one reaches out a hand for you to hold.
And then a hero comes along
with the strength to carry on
and you cast your fears aside
and you know you can survive.
So, when you feel like hope is gone
look inside you and be strong
and you'll finally see the truth
that a hero lies in you.
I chose the song "Hero" by Mariah Carey becasue the song revolves around finding the hero within yourself. I'm sure that none of the Danes would have wanted to fight Grendel or his mother. But then "a hero comes along, with the strength to carry on" and that hero is Beowulf. Beowulf is the strongest man in the world and instead of being afraid of what he is, he embraces it. An important part of being a hero is proving to yourself that you are one. Beowulf has the strength to carry on, cast any fears aside, and battle alone. With each and every time he does that, he is not only proving himself to the Danes but to himself. I believe that Beowulf has found a hero within himself which means he has received the message this song is trying to portray.
Be a hero
Kill your ego
It doesn't matter it's all just a pack of lies
Build a new base
Steal a new face
It doesn't matter it's all just to save you
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away
I will stand by your ground
I will tear down myself
I won't fade
Year zero
Another hero
Is anybody alive here across the line?
Buy a new face
Start a new race
It doesn't matter it's all just to save your face
It's all just to save you
It's all just to save your face
It's all just to save you
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away
I will stand by your ground
I will tear down myself
I will stand by your ground
I will tear down myself
I won't fade
I won't fade
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away
We'll never fade away (We will never fade away)
We'll never fade away (We will never fade away)
We'll never fade away (We will never fade away)
We'll never fade away (We will never fade)
We'll never fade away (We will never fade away)
We'll never fade away (We will never fade)
We'll never fade away
Year zero
by 30 seconds to mars
(2002)
This song greatly relates to the novel in his image and actions. The chorus explains he will never fade away and that was the idea that heros were immortal such as his luck with grendel's mother. The other line of i will stnd by your ground and tear myself down relates to beowulfs dedication to killing the dragon and also his dedication to his king in the beginning of the book saying he would give his gold to the king if he died.
"All These Lives"
Daughtry, 2006
...Glass is sprayed across the floor
From the broken window.
She can't breathe anymore.
Can't deny what we know.
They're gonna find you, just believe.
You're not a person; you're a disease.
All these lives that you've been taking,
Deep inside, my heart is breaking.
Broken homes from separation.
Don't you know it's violation?
It's so wrong, but you'll see.
Never gonna let you take my world from me.
The world outside these walls may know you're breathing,
But you ain't comin' in.
You ain't comin' in.
Posters hung on building walls
Of missing faces.
Months go by without the cause,
The clues, or traces.
They're gonna find you, just believe.
You're not a person; you're a disease.
All these lives that you've been taking,
Deep inside, my heart is breaking.
Broken homes from separation.
Don't you know it's violation?
It's so wrong, but you'll see.
Never gonna let you take my world from me.
The world outside these walls may know you're breathing,
But you ain't comin' in.
Shed the light on all the ones who never thought they would become
A father, mother asking why this world can be so cold.
...
All these lives that you've been taking,
Deep inside, my heart is breaking.
Broken homes from separation.
Don't you know it's violation?
It's so wrong, but you'll see.
Never gonna let you take my world from me.
The world outside these walls may know you're breathing,
But you ain't comin' in.
All these lives that you've been taking,
Deep inside, my heart is breaking.
All these lives that you've been taking,
Deep inside, my heart is breaking.
All these lives that you've been taking,
Deep inside, my heart is breaking.
The world outside these walls may know you're breathing,
The world outside these walls may know you're breathing,
But you ain't comin' in.
This song by Daughtry reminds me of Grendel and what the inhabitants of the Danes and Beowulf probably thought of him. Grendel had taken about thirty men that night in Heorot and caused mass destruction to the hall, leaving the survivors and the people of the Danes to disgust him. Grendel "violated" their home and people and once Beowulf came to the rescue, everyone was more confident that he won't be destroying their lives nor coming into their world anymore. They had no respect for Grendel whatsoever and looked upon him like a "disease." This song has a very vindictive attitude.
Breaking Benjamin
"Until the End" (August 2006)
So clever, whatever, I'm done with these endeavors
Alone I'll walk the winding way (here I stay)
It's over, no longer, I feel it growing stronger
I live to die another day, until I fade away
Why give up? Why give in?
It's not enough, it never is
So I will go on until the end
We've become, desolate
It's not enough, it never is
But I will go on until the end
Surround me, it's easy, to fall apart completely
I feel you creeping up again (In my Head)
It's over, no longer, I feel it growing colder
I knew this day would come to end, so let this life begin
Why give up? Why give in?
It's not enough, it never is
So I will go on until the end
We've become, desolate
It's not enough, it never is
But I will go on until the end
I've lost my way
I've lost my way
But I will go on until the end
Living is, hard enough, without you f****** up
Why give up? Why give in?
It's not enough, it never is
So I will go on until the end
We've become, desolate
It's not enough, it never is
But I will go on until the end
I've lost the way
I've lost the way
But I will go on until the end
The final fight I win
The final fight I win
The final fight I win
But I will go on until the end.
The song "Until the End" by Breaking Benjamin depicts the story of Beowulf and how his stubborness caused him to fight until his demise. In my opinion, this song represents the mindset of the character Beowulf throughout the entire story. He has a mentality that he will fight for his people until his life is taken and that he will defeat any adversary before his life is stripped from him. The lyric, "It's not enough, it never is
So I will go on until the end" signifies that Beowulf has given everything for his people and he will do anythin to protect the Geats and Danes from evil. The song also depicts how Beowulf believes his actions are never enough to ensure the lives of his people, but he will fight until his death to preserve their existence. The warrior Beowulf battled against the likes of Grendel and his mother, but in his old age could not defeat the over-powering dragon. The line "The final fight I win", shows how although Beowulf lost his life, he still gained victory over the beast, and never lost a fight. The dragon may have killed him, but the beast met his demise as well against the warrior. Beowulf never gives in and fights until his death for the preservation of his people and the ideals of his nation.
Excerpt of Bat Out of Hell, sung by Meat Loaf, written by Jim Steinman, released in 1977
"The sirens are screaming and the fires are howling
Way down in the valley tonight
Theres a man in the shadows with a gun in his eye
And a blade shining oh so bright
Theres evil in the air and theres thunder in the sky
And a killers on the bloodshot streets
And down in the tunnel where the deadly are rising
Oh I swear I saw a young boy
Down in the gutter
He was starting to foam in the heat
Oh baby youre the only thing in this whole world
Thats pure and good and right
And wherever you are and wherever you go
Theres always gonna be some light..."
I chose this part of the song because it begins my describing the sort of chaos that Grendel had stirred up in Hrothgar's kingdom before Beowulf arrived. I felt that the "youre the only thing in this whole world/Thats pure and good and right/And wherever you are and wherever you go/Theres always gonna be some light" part applied especially to the Dane's view of Beowulf, because he basically could do no wrong in their eyes. Everywhere Beowulf went, he brought light into peoples lives again by saving them from monsters.
NELLY - Warrior
ou're a warrior fighting for your soul
Taken from the world above and brought down the world below
You're the son of his majesty
Remember how it used to be
In the light of day it's easy to see
Now it's nighttime
You had to leave
Separated from the king
Now the water's rushing and you keep trying to swim against the stream
And it seems, like your not moving the many water's gushing you gasp for air
Almost drowning ears ringing, once upon a time we were singing
One day the trees will stand and clap hands
Stream of thought getting caught in the klipa, this place is just a shell, external
Egos swell, that one'll burn ya, we fell a long way down, that eternal frown'll get you
You look vexed it's the dregs, the yetzer hara's lurking
Trying to make you forget we got a job to do
You're a priest and a prince and you can't be moved
[Chorus:]
You're a warrior, Fighting for your soul
Taken from a world above, and brought down to a world below
Re-united, re-united return the princess to the king,
Re-united, re-united, she's been taken for so long
Re-united, re-united and then she'll be filled with joy
Re-united, re-united like the days of her youth
Descended to the pit
What's this feeling can't get rid of it
Soul sick
Can't seem to shake it
When one retires at night weeping, joy will come in the morning
You made my mountain stand strong
[Chorus]
Like and ancient memory
Remember how it used to be
Close your eyes and breath in
That's the scent of freedom
Ringing across the sea
Land of milk and honey
One day will wake up from this dream and we'll stop sleeping,
Oh, yo, then we'll see clearly
I picked this song Warrior by Nelly because it reminds me of Beowulf and how he was always known to be a warrior. Beowulf was definitely a warrior because he brought upon to fight Grendel and after he had done that he was asked to take on Grendel's mom who he had never seen before and he said yes and went to fight her. Beowulf was a very brave character and would be known as one of the all-time greatest warriors of his time.
Warrior By nelly was Released on August 11, 2008
Good To Know That If I Ever Need Attention All I Have To Do Is Die by Brand New (Written by Jesse Lacey and released in 2003)
Once said, always said.
I will hold the past over your head.
I'll speak my mind whenever I feel slighted.
I am hell-bent on extracting all of my revenge.
Take heart, sweetheart, or I will take it from you.
We slip concealed back to the keep.
Concede to do the work for free.
We prey as wolves among the sheep and slit the necks of soldiers while they sleep.
I chose “Good To Know That If I Ever Need Attention All I Have To Do Is Die” by Brand New because the song and Beowulf share a common theme. The theme they both share is merciless violence and cruel revenge. The excerpt that I took from the song is a perfect description of Grendel and his mother. The line “We prey as wolves among the sheep and slit the necks of soldiers while they sleep” is basically an exact description of what Grendel did to the warriors when they were asleep in Herot Hall. After Beowulf kills Grendel, Grendel’s mother believes that it is only right that she seeks revenge upon Beowulf. Her feelings of resentment towards Beowulf are explained in these lines, “I will hold the past over your head. I'll speak my mind whenever I feel slighted.
I am hell-bent on extracting all of my revenge. Take heart, sweetheart, or I will take it from you.” The lyrics of this song do not only describe what happened to Beowulf’s great enemies but also talks about the feelings they had.
Beat It by Michael Jackson released in 1983
They Told Him Don't You Ever Come Around Here
Don't Wanna See Your Face, You Better Disappear
The Fire's In Their Eyes And Their Words Are Really Clear
So Beat It, Just Beat It
[2nd Verse]
You Better Run, You Better Do What You Can
Don't Wanna See No Blood, Don't Be A Macho Man
You Wanna Be Tough, Better Do What You Can
So Beat It, But You Wanna Be Bad
[Chorus]
Just Beat It, Beat It, Beat It, Beat It
No One Wants To Be Defeated
Showin' How Funky Strong Is Your Fight
It Doesn't Matter Who's Wrong Or Right
Just Beat It, Beat It
Just Beat It, Beat It
Just Beat It, Beat It
Just Beat It, Beat It
[3rd Verse]
They're Out To Get You, Better Leave While You Can
Don't Wanna Be A Boy, You Wanna Be A Man
You Wanna Stay Alive, Better Do What You Can
So Beat It, Just Beat It
[4th Verse]
You Have To Show Them That You're Really Not Scared
You're Playin' With Your Life, This Ain't No Truth Or Dare
They'll Kick You, Then They Beat You,
Then They'll Tell You It's Fair
So Beat It, But You Wanna Be Bad
[Chorus]
Just Beat It, Beat It, Beat It, Beat It
No One Wants To Be Defeated
Showin' How Funky Strong Is Your Fight
It Doesn't Matter Who's Wrong Or Right
[Chorus]
Just Beat It, Beat It, Beat It, Beat It
No One Wants To Be Defeated
Showin' How Funky Strong Is Your Fight
It Doesn't Matter Who's Wrong Or Right
Just Beat It, Beat It, Beat It, Beat It, Beat It
The song Beat It by Michael Jackson is a great example of the struggle between Beowulf, “his people”, and Grendel/Grendel’s mother. As the song starts it serves as a warning to both Grendel and Grendel’s mother to stay clear of Beowulf because he has made it very evident that he has no fear in defeating such powerful forces and will not back down from the challenge. He has the perseverance and determination to serve the people and take down both creatures. Within the repetitive phrase “Beat it”, the “It” refers to Grendel and Grendel’s mother. In a sense they are the people’s voices yelling at Beowulf saying, “Beat the monsters so the country can return to a period of peacefulness.” In the third and fourth verses there is a switch to representing Beowulf‘s characteristic; how he is to rise above all the others and “be a man” demonstrating great amount of courage while trying to stay alive, which will in turn give him a legacy for generations to remember. In addition to being a song to display his endeavors, it could be a song which Beowulf could sing to get him motivated before and during his gruesome battles.
"Leave Out All The Rest"
Performed and Written By Linkin Park
Release Date July 15, 2008
I dreamed I was missing
You were so scared
But no one would listen
Cause no one else cared
After my dreaming
I woke with this fear
What am I leaving
When I'm done here
So if you're asking me
I want you to know
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
And don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
[End Chorus]
Don't be afraid
I've taken my beating
I've shared what I made
I'm strong on the surface
Not all the way through
I've never been perfect
But neither have you
So if you're asking me
I want you to know
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
Don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
[End Chorus]
Forgetting
All the hurt inside
You've learned to hide so well
Pretending
Someone else can come and save me from myself
I can't be who you are
[Chorus]
When my time comes
Forget the wrong that I've done
Help me leave behind some
Reasons to be missed
Don't resent me
And when you're feeling empty
Keep me in your memory
Leave out all the rest
Leave out all the rest
Forgetting
All the hurt inside
You've learned to hide so well
Pretending
Someone else can come and save me from myself
I can't be who you are
I can't be who you are
I chose to use the song "Leave Out All The Rest" by Linkin Park because I feel like it embodies who Beowulf truly was. Ever since we finished the story, I can't help but find similarities between him and the lyrics. For example when they sing "I woke with this fear, What am I leaving When I'm done here", I can picture Beowulf saying this to a hall of Danes; all he ever wanted was to be remembered for all of his accomplishments. "And when you're feeling empty Keep me in your memory", reminds me of how he saved the Danes by conquering Grendel and his mother; he will never be able to leave their memories. Beowulf left behind so many triumphs that he could never be forgotten. Even though Beowulf died fighting the dragon, beating Grandel and his mother is what will make him famous; "Forget the wrong that I've done Help me leave behind some Reasons to be missed." "Leave Out All The Rest" by Linkin Park is the perfect song to describe Beowulf and his character.
Mad Man by Sacred Warrior, on the album Obsessions(1991)
In the world where we live from day to day
Lives a man who sees only one way
Stalking the night for a weak, yeah, that`s his prey
On the loose he`s dressed to kill, another victim, that`s his thrill
His eyes glow of violence and abomination
He`s watching you every more always ahead of the game
He knows where he can always find you
You`re just a number to this dangerous man
You can lie there bleeding while he`s laughing
Mad man, can it be he`s after you
Or is he more than a mad man comes for you
In a rage he`s on the loose
Step by step he crawls inside you and turns your insides out
As you allow him, he will overtake you
You have two ways to choose, but you`ve broken all the rules
And now you need someone to save you
You can put an end to his disastrous ways
Call up the lord and he will free you
Mad man, can it be he`s after you
Or is he more than a mad man comes for you
In a rage he`s on the loose
Deep inside you can find the answer and he can wipe your tears away
Your tears away
Receive him now don`t reject him, Oh, he`s god, oh don`t you dare ?
From there isn`t a holiday
You might not ever understand his frustration
Of watching you throwing your life away
Now you know you can be free, truly free
`Cause he is calling out to your name
Why don`t you see that he is the healer
Mad man, can it be he`s after you
Or is he more than a mad man comes for you
In a rage he`s on the loose
_______________
I chose the song Mad Man by Sacred Warrior because I think it depicts Beowulf’s power very well. Beowulf was born a warrior and when he promised to kill Grendel, the warrior in him shined. In the song when it says, “Step by step he crawls inside you and turns your insides out. As you allow him, he will overtake you,” can easily refer to whenever Beowulf is in a battle. With Grendel, Grendel’s mother and the Dragon, Beowulf has no mercy and it seems like it’s a completely different person. The song goes on to explain how this “mad man” or Beowulf in his warrior form will stop at nothing to take down who he needs too. Then, in the line, “Deep inside you can find the answer and he can wipe your tears away,” can refer to the relief of the people after Beowulf killed Grendel and his mother. Many lives were lost to Grendel and Beowulf wiped away their tears when he defeated the monster.
Warrior-Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Album-Show Your Bones(2006)
Songwriters- Karen O, Nick Zinner, Brian Chase
Men, they like me
'Cause I'm a warrior
A warrior
Stand on my feet
Dance the warrior
The warrior
Where would I be?
I'd be a warrior
A warrior
Now the strangers have caught on
And they're riding in the back seat
The rivers going to wash all
Yeah, the river it spoke to me
It told me I’m small
And I swallowed it down
If I make it at all
I'll make you want me
I chose the song Warrior by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs because the song describes a warrior who is greatly appreciated as well as a little conceited. This fits Beowulf perfectly because although the people applaud his victories, he swims in their worship over him. This is shown when the song goes "Men, they like me 'cause I'm a warrior, a warrior." I'm sure Beowulf could also say a line like this because if he wasn't a warrior, he might not be known as well among the Danes. I also found a similarity between Beowulf and the line "The rivers going to wash all. Yeah, the river it spoke to me." This line reminded of Beowulf venturing to Grendel and his mother's cave and traveling across the river. Overall, the warrior in the song is a great example of Beowulf.
Go the Distance
Artist: Hercules (Roger Bart)
Music: Alan Menken
Lyrics: David Zippel
March 27, 2001
I have often dreamed
Of a far off place
Where a hero's welcome
Would be waiting for me
Where the crowds will cheer
When they see my face
And a voice keeps saying
This is where I'm meant to be
I'll be there someday
I can go the distance
I will find my way
If I can be strong
I know ev'ry mile
Will be worth my while
When I go the distance
I'll be right where I belong
Down an unknown road
To embrace my fate
Though the road may wander
It will lead me to you
And a thousand years
Would be worth the wait
It may take a lifetime
But somehow I'll see it through
And I won't look back
I can go the distance
And I'll stay on track
No I won't accept defeat
It's an uphill slope
But I won't lose hope
Till I go the distance
And my journey is complete
But to look beyond the glory is the hardest part
For a hero's strength is measured by his heart
Like a shooting star
I can go the distance
I will search the world
I will face its harms
I don't care how far
I can go the distance
TillI find my hero's welcome
Waiting in your arms...
I will search the world
I will face its harms
TillI find my hero's welcome
Waiting in your arms...
I chose the song "Go the Distance" from Hercules because it is a song about a hero and his feelings about being a hero. Instead of a song about a hero, it is a hero proclaiming what it is like to be a hero. The way they feel, even though they might have an ego. This verse of the song most represents Beowulf, "I can go the distance And I'll stay on track No I won't accept defeat It's an uphill slope But I won't lose hope Till I go the distance And my journey is complete." It is so powerful because like Beowulf, he knows what he needs to do. He won't accept defeat because he will fight until the end. He knows that at times, it will be very hard but he will keep trying until he defeats all of the monsters like Grendel and Grendel's mother or he is killed. The fighting until the death and heroism is reiterated with "But to look beyond the glory is the hardest part For a hero's strength is measured by his heart."
The great heroism of Beowulf is clearly depicted in this song.
Monument- A Day To Remember (Published on January 23, 2007, written by Jeremy McKinnon)
It's Monday morning
And I would kill for a chance to drive
Get so far away from here with you my dear
That I'll never leave your side
Nobody knows the troubles I've seen
In a van, on a soapbox for the world to see
Miles away, and I wish this didn't mean so much to me
To be a monument for the rest of them
Miles away, and I wish this didn't mean so much to me
To be a monument for the rest of them
We're getting older
I've started to fear for my life
is this the way that it should be?
this whole thing's riding on me
it's been a long road so far
with nowhere to turn
There's no looking back from here
no more dwelling on my fears
Miles away, and I wish this didn't mean so much to me
To be a monument for the rest of them
Miles away, and I wish this didn't mean so much to me
To be a monument for the rest of them
Twenty bucks says you'll remember me
When you see me on your TV screen
It may be the first time
But it won't be the last time
[x3]
And I'll scream
so loud that everyone in this place
Will hear every word I say
'cause this is my time, this is my time to shine
let nothing stand in our way
[x2]
Twenty bucks says you'll remember me
When you see me on your TV screen
It may be the first time
But it won't be the last time
I chose this song because it gretaly relates to Beowulf. The lines, "it's been a long road so far with nowhere to turn
There's no looking back from here
no more dwelling on my fears" describe Beowulf before he fights Grendel. He has traveled a great distance to help Hrothgar and he realizes that he can't turn back. He knows that he must fight and stand up to Grendel.
Also, the lines, "Twenty bucks says you'll remember me
When you see me on your TV screen
It may be the first time
But it won't be the last time" relate to how Beowulf wanted to be a legend. He knew that by defeating Grendel, no one would forget him. Anglo-Saxon people wanted to be remembered forever and not just be known as a hero.
Pursuit of Vikings, By Amon Amarth
Album: Fate of Norns, (2004)
The warming sun returns again
And melts away the snow
The sea is freed from icy chains
Winter is letting go
Standing on the ocean side
We can hear the waves
Calling us out with tide
To sail into our fate
Oden! Guide our ships
Our axes, spears and swords
Guide us through storms that whip
And in brutal war
Our ships await us by the shore
Time has come to leave
Our country, family and homes
For riches in the east
Some of us won’t return
But that won’t bring us down
Our fate is written in the web
Woven by the Norns
A ram is sacrificed
Across the longship’s bow
And as we set our sails
A strong breeze starts to blow
It carries us out to sea
With hope of fame and pride
And glorious all will be
That with sword in hand will die
Oden! Guide our ships
Our axes, spears and swords
Guide us through storms that whip
And in brutal war
Oden! Guide our ships
Our axes, spears and swords
Guide us through storms that whip
And in brutal war
This entire song reminds me of Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons, that I don't even think I have to explain it. It mentions Oden, The Viking God and father of Thor, and in the chorus they talk about calling for his help to guide their weapons and to help them and their ships through the storms. "It carries us out to sea
With hope of fame and pride", This quote reminds me of fighting and being a good warrior brought people fame and glory rather than just having a lot of money like it is in today's society.
"Keep Holding On" by Avril Lavigne
Written by: Avril Lavigne, and Lukasz Gottwald
Released: December 5th, 2006
You're not alone
Together we stand
I'll be by your side, you know I'll take your hand
When it gets cold
And it feels like the end
There's no place to go
You know I won't give in
No I won't give in
Keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Just stay strong
'Cause you know I'm here for you, I'm here for you
There's nothing you could say
Nothing you could do
There's no other way when it comes to the truth
So keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
So far away
I wish you were here
Before it's too late, this could all disappear
Before the doors close
And it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend
Yeah, yeah
Keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Just stay strong
'Cause you know I'm here for you, I'm here for you
There's nothing you could say
Nothing you could do
There's no other way when it comes to the truth
So keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Hear me when I say, when I say I believe
Nothing's gonna change, nothing's gonna change destiny
Whatever's meant to be will work out perfectly
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
La da da da
La da da da
La da da da da da da da da
Keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Just stay strong
'Cause you know I'm here for you, I'm here for you
There's nothing you could say
Nothing you could do
There's no other way when it comes to the truth
So keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Keep holding on
Keep holding on
There's nothing you could say
Nothing you could do
There's no other way when it comes to the truth
So keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
I chose this song because it was the first song that reminded me of Beowulf as I was listening to my i-Pod one night. When the song says “You know I won’t give in, No I won’t give in” it makes me think of how Beowulf would never give up and would give everything to defeat the enemy. He knew that he wouldn’t live forever and the only way to be immortal is through his fame. In the song it says, “Before it’s too late, this could all disappear, before the doors close and it comes to an end, with you by my side I will fight and defend.” This relates to Beowulf because he tried to fit everything into his life before he left the planet. He would take on any battle to make sure that he left his legacy. He would fight with his men and made sure that his men would be all set and taken care of when he died. Another way this reminds me of Beowulf is the fact that this song was written for the movie “Eragon” which deals with a boy and his dragon. The dragons make me think of Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxon time period. To me this song fits in with Beowulf although it was written with any intention of doing so.
“Honor” written and performed by Atreyu (2007)
Resolute a stance of defiance
Always teetering on the brink
Nothing can hold you back when
WHEN YOU'RE NOT HOLDING BACK A THING
Open arms we embrace tomorrow
Closed fists, tarnishing today
We're not afraid to open our mouths and scream:
WE BELIEVE IN WHAT WE SAY
Like a whisper to the dusk
An oath against the shadows, denying the dark
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
Like a prayer unto the dawn
In arms against the shadows, destroying the dark
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
Covered in sweat and blood
Yet still our heads held high
Actions have consequences
When you live for foolish pride
Been careful not to lose ourselves
Stand together one passion, one hate
We believe in a better tomorrow
We believe in WHAT WE SAY
Like a whisper to the dusk
An oath against the shadows, denying the dark
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
Like a prayer unto the dawn
In arms against the shadows, destroying the dark
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
(x2)
We'll fight our battles
We'll wage our wars
Settle the score with honor and blood
We'll wear our scars like medals of hope
LIKE MEDALS OF HOPE, LIKE MEDALS OF HOPE
Like a whisper to the dusk
An oath against the shadows, denying the dark
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
Like a prayer unto the dawn
In arms against the shadows, destroying the dark
In arms against the shadows, destroying the dark
In arms against the shadows, destroying the dark
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn
I chose “Honor” by Atreyu because this song encompasses Beowulf through many different lines and stanzas. The song’s central message to “FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT 'til the break of dawn” with honor and pride is exactly what Beowulf does for the Danes. He risks everything to battle Grendel and Grendel’s mother, “destroying the dark” that plagued the Danes for years. “Covered in sweat and blood” he never backs down as he fights with supremacy and honor. In the line “Nothing can hold you back when, WHEN YOU'RE NOT HOLDING BACK A THING,” summarizes Beowulf’s demeanor towards his battles. He invests everything, physically and mentally, into defeating the monsters. Beowulf “believe[s] in a better tomorrow,” therefore he fights for the Danes freedom and livelihood. He “settle[s] the score with honor and blood,” ending the rule of terror imposed by the monsters and bringing peace to the Danes.
Headstrong
Written and Performed by Trapt
Date Published- September 23, 2003
Circling your, circling your, circling your head,
Contemplating everything you ever said
Now I see the truth, I got doubt
A different motive in your eyes and now I’m out
See you later
I see your fantasy, you want to make it a reality paved in gold
See inside, inside of our heads (yeah)
Well now that’s over
I see your motives inside, decisions to hide
[Chorus:]
Back off I’ll take you on
Headstrong to take on anyone
I know that you are wrong
Headstrong we’re headstrong
Back off I’ll take you on
Headstrong to take on anyone
I know that you are wrong and this is not where you belong
I can’t give everything away
I won’t give everything away
[Verse 2:]
Conclusions manifest, your first impressions got to be your very best
I see you’re full of shit, and that’s alright
That’s how you play, I guess you’ll get through every night
Well now that’s over
I see your fantasy, you want to make it a reality paved in gold
See inside, inside of our heads (yeah)
Well now that’s over
I see your motives inside, decisions to hide
[Chorus]
[Verse 3:]
I know, I know all about [x3]
I know, I know all about your motives inside, and your decision to hide
[Chorus]
I chose the song Headstrong by Trapt because I think its a good representation of strength and determination. To me this song is very upbeat and fast and reminds me of the adrenaline that must have been flowing through Beowulfs body as he prepared to fight Grendel, and his mother. I especially thought these few lines were perfect to describe Beowulf, "Back off I’ll take you on,
Headstrong to take on anyone,
I know that you are wrong", because even though Grendel and his mother are monsters, Beowulf was still ready to battle them, because he knew they were wrong and he wanted to bring peace back to his people.
Sound of The Sun By Silverstein
Your breath is scorched across my face
You can't bring me down
Your breath will never be the same
Go!
And I don't know whats wrong with me
I wanted to be all the things you need
All the things you need
And now I'm standing here alone
I'm waiting for it all to come and go
All to come and go
Maybe I just had to let it go
Make it up, make it up when you're not around
Bring it up, bring it up did you hear the sound of the sun
Rising from the grounds
Make it up, make it up when you're not around
Bring it up, bring it up do you always wanna be the one
Running from yourself
You!
And nothing's ever as it seems
When all your dreams exist in memories
Exists in memories
And all the trouble takes it's toll
I don't remember all the common goals
All the common goals
Maybe you just have to let me know
Make it up, make it up when you're not around
Bring it up, bring it up did you hear the sound of the sun
Rising from the grounds
Make it up, make it up when you're not around
Bring it up, bring it up do you always wanna be the one
Running from yourself
Your breath is scorched across my face
You can't bring me down
Your breath will never be the same
Go! Go! Go!
I chose the song Sound of the Sun By Silverstein because it really describes how beowulf would never back down from any challenge even if the odds were completely against him. Such as Grendel and Grendels mother. Also the line where it says "your breath is scorched across my face" has to do with the dragon. The dragon was beating up on Grendeland eventually killed him but he woudlnt back down no matter what. Also i think that the line "all the trouble takes its toll" has to do with all the trouble he went through. In the end he went through a lot of hardships and fell short in the end to the dragon.
Breaking Benjamin - Blow Me Away
They fall in line
One at a time
Ready to play
I can’t see them anyway
No time to lose
We’ve got to move
Steady your hand
I am losing sight again
Fire your guns
Its time to run
Blow me away
I will stay unless I may
After the fall
We’ll shake it off
Show me the way
Only the strongest will survive
Lead me to heaven when we die
I have a shadow on the wall
I’ll be the one to save us all
There’s nothing left
So save your breath
Lying and wait
Caught inside this tidal wave
You’re covers blown
No where to go
Holding your fate
Knowing that I will walk alone
Fire your guns
Its time to run
Blow me away
I will stay unless I may
After the fall
We’ll shake it off
Show me the way
Only the strongest will survive
Lead me to heaven when we die
I have a shadow on the wall
I’ll be the one to save us all
You wanted it back
Only the strongest will survive
Lead me to heaven when we die
I have a shadow on the wall
I’ll be the one to save us all
Save us all
-
I picked Blow me away by Breaking Benjamin because the song is all about the struggle between man faces in battle. The resounding chorus states that, "only the strongest will survive." just as Beowulf and Grendel find themselves in a battle to the death. Even though this song talks about more modern warfare than in Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons time it still applies. I believe that now men still have the same feelings of war that Beowulf had in his day. It almost seems that the entire stanza of the song that begins with, "theres nothing left" and continues until, "show me the way" could be applied to Grendel in his hiding from Beowulf. after Beowulf removed his arm. His cover was blown. There was no where to run and only the strongest would survive. This is a powerful song that applies to a powerful book and character in Beowulf
Alter Bridge
"New Way To Live" (2007)
In your head monsters call
In the air you find no one
Is there at all
But you keep them alive
Paralyzed you cannot run
You only crawl
[Chorus]
So find a new way to live
Before you die in the cold
And though the sky's caving in
The fear must not gain control
And do not worry my friend
Or make this call by your sole
And find a new way to live
Before your fate's set in stone
Will it come to an end?
What you fear you must confess
Is what you want
Will you ever survive
All the monsters of the mind
Where all is wrong?
[Chorus]
So find a new way to live
Before you die in the cold
And though the sky's caving in
The fear must not gain control
And do not worry my friend
Or make this call by your sole
And find a new way to live
Before your fate's set in stone
It pulls me down like the heaviest of stone
And I am only flesh and bone
And so I walk through this valley all alone
I can't take this anymore
No
{I just can't take this anymore}
{I just can't take this anymore}
[Chorus]
So find a new way to live
Before you die in the cold
And though the sky's caving in
The fear must not gain control
And do not worry my friend
Or make this call by your sole
And find a new way to live
Before your fate's set in stone
I chose "New Way to Live" because I felt that the lyrics worked perfectly with the idea of Monsters terrorizing people, and the people being powerless against them. The first stanza of the song relates to how the Danes are hopeless against the monsters of Grendel and his mother. The lines "And though the sky's caving in, The fear must not gain control, And do not worry my friend, Or make this call by your sole" correlate well with how the Danes fear Grendel so they enlist the help of Beowulf. The bridge of the song shifts to Beowulfs perspective, saying "And I am only flesh and bone, And so I walk through this valley all alone." This made me think of when Beowulf chases after Grendel's mother and is led to her lair near the rocky cliffs. He is only flesh and bone, yet he is able to defeat such a terrible monster. The sky must've actually felt like it was caving in on the nights that Grendel attacked the mead hall. The Danes had to find a new way to live or else they would've been "set in stone."
Halo-Bethany Joy Galeotti
I never promised you a ray of light
I never promised there'd be sunshine everyday
I give you everything I have
The good
The bad
Why do you put me on a pedestal
I'm so up high that I can't see the ground below
So help me down
You've got it wrong
I don't belong there
One thing is clear
I wear a halo
I wear a halo when you look at me
But standing from here
You wouldn't say so
You wouldn't say so if you were me
And I
I just wanna love you
Oh
Oh
I
I just wanna love you
I always said that I would make mistakes
I'm only human and that's my saving grace
I fall as hard as I try so don't be blinded
See me as I really am
I have flaws and sometimes I even sin
So pull me from that pedestal
(Pull me from that pedestal)
I don't belong there
(I don't belong)
One thing is clear
I wear a halo
I wear a halo when you look at me
But standing from here
You wouldn't say so
You wouldn't say so if you were me
And I
I just wanna love you
Oh
Oh
I
I just wanna love you
Why you think that you know me
But in your eyes I am something above you
It's only in your mind
Only in your mind
I wear
I wear
I wear a halo
One thing is clear
I wear a halo
I wear a halo when you look at me
But standing from here
You wouldn't say so
You wouldn't say so if you were me
And I
I just wanna love you
Oh
Oh
I
I just wanna love you
(I just wanna love you)
Halo reminds me of Beowulf because angels wear a halo, and i believe that Beowulf was Denmark's angel. Even though most angels are not actually true living people, they are still sent to help people in need. Beowulf was sent to help save the people of Denmark from Grendel, His mother, and from the Dragon. Beowulf depicts the idea of an angel because he comes to the rescue of a large group of people. " I wear a halo when you look at me" is a line that makes me think that Beowulf was an angel only in the eyes of the people of Denmark. For example, Grendel's mother of course did not see Beowulf as an angel after he killed her son. I believe that Beowulf is an angel int he eyes of those in Denmark.
Hero by Eloy
Album-Ra(1988)
Hero!
Tearing down every wall
Bear your burden, conquer all
Striving to never die
Hero!
Climbing the peak of fame
'Til everybody calls your name
A myriad of vocals cry
Hero!
Your struggle knows no end
Your alone without a friend
Setting your goal too high
Hero!
Yours is victory
Going down in history
And like a star to shine
Do you realize
You've taken on that task that is far too great
The pressure grows
But it's much too late
And you recall
The easy loving life that you left behind
You can't control
The whirlpools in you mind
In your timeless world
Your pulse beats fast, takes on an endless race
You try to find a value for yourself
But the way is too long
Your toil is getting harder with every step
Confusion rules:
Your spirit's fighting back
Under the storm
And you return
You raced along
Going on
Means going far
Going far
I picked this song becasue when I looked at it for the first time it instantly reminded me of Beowulf.This part of the song sayes Yours is victory,Going down in history And like a star to shine Do you realize You've taken on that task that is far too great this describes
beowulf perfectly.Beowulf was his mens hero, who went down in history and shines like a star to all of his men becasue of his accomplishments. When he took on grendel and grendel's mother it was a task to big but in the end he defeated them both.Also when the song sayes Hero!
Tearing down every wall
Bear your burden, conquer all
Striving to never die
Hero!Beowulf's main goal is to conquer all the bad without dieing and he will tear down every wall or anything in his way to accomplish this task which is to keep his men safe.
Like a Stone by Audioslave (2003)
On a cobweb afternoon
In a room full of emptiness
By a freeway I confess
I was lost in the pages
Of a book full of death
Reading how we’ll die alone
And if we’re good we’ll lay to rest
Anywhere we want to go
Chorus
In your house I long to be
Room by room patiently
I’ll wait for you there
Like a stone
I’ll wait for you there
Alone
On my deathbed I will pray
To the gods and the angels
Like a pagan to anyone
Who will take me to heaven
To a place I recall
I was there so long ago
The sky was bruised
The wine was bled
And there you led me on
Chorus
In your house I long to be
Room by room patiently
I’ll wait for you there
Like a stone
I’ll wait for you there
Alone
Alone
And on I read
Until the day was gone
And I sat in regret
Of all the things I’ve done
For all that I’ve blessed
And all that I’ve wronged
In dreams until my death
I will wander on
Chorus
In your house I long to be
Room by room patiently
I’ll wait for you there
Like a stone
I’ll wait for you there
Alone
Alone
I chose this song because it reminds me of Beowulf after he has passed away. He is trying to reflect back on his life. He realizes that all he has done was filled a book with death and destruction. He now understands that he could have lived his life very differently. All he can do now is wonder in the history pages. In the song when it says “I’ll wait for you there like a stone” I picture him right before he fights Grendel taunting him to come and fight him.
welcome to the black parade-my chemical romance (2006)
When I was,
A young boy,
My father, took me into the city
To see a marching band
He said, "Son when you grow up, will you be the saviour of the broken, the beaten and the damned?"
He said, "Will you defeat them, your demons, and all the non-believers, the plans that they have made? Because one day, I'll leave you, a phantom, to lead you in the summer, to join the black parade."
When I was,
A young boy
My father, took me into the city
To see a marching band
He said, "Son when you grow up, will you be the saviour of the broken, the beaten and the damned?"
Sometimes I get the feeling, she's watching over me
And other times I feel like I should go
And through it all, the rise and fall
The bodies in the street
And when you're gone we want you all to know
We'll carry on, We'll carry on
And though you're dead and gone believe me
Your memory will carry on
We'll carry on
Until my heart I can't contain it
The anthem won't explain it
A world that sends you reeling from decimated dreams
You're misery and hate will kill us all
So paint it black and take it back
Lets shout it loud and clear
Defiant to the end we hear the call
To carry on
We'll carry on,
And though your dead and gone believe me
Your memory will carry on
We'll carry on
And though your broken and defeated
Your weary widow marches on
And on we carry through the fears
Oh oh oh
The disappointed faces of your peers
Oh oh oh
Take a look at me 'cause I could not care at all
Do or die
You’ll never make me
Because the world will never take my (heart)
Go and try; you’ll never break me
We want it all, we want to play this (part)
I won’t explain, or say I’m sorry
I’m unashamed, I’m gonna show my (scar)
Give a cheer, for all the broken
Listen here, because it’s who we are
I'm just a man; I'm not a hero
Just a boy, whose meant to sing this (song)
I'm just a man; I'm not a hero
I
Don't
Care
We'll carry on
We'll carry on
And though you're dead and gone believe me
Your memory will carry on
We'll carry on
And though your broken and defeated
Your weary widow marches on
Do or die
You’ll never make me
Because the world will never take my (heart)
Go and try; you’ll never break me
We want it all, we want to play this (part)
I won’t explain, or say I’m sorry
I’m unashamed, I’m gonna show my (scar)
Give a cheer, for all the broken
Listen here, because it’s who we are
I'm just a man; I'm not a hero
Just a boy, who had to sing this (song)
I'm just a man; I'm not a hero)
We'll carry on
We'll carry on
We'll carry on
We'll carry on
We'll carry on
I chose the song "Welcome to the Black Parade" by my chemical romance because there are a couple verses in the song that i feel relate to Beowulf. When it says "Son when you grow up, will you be the saviour of the broken, the beaten and the damned?". Beowulf is the saviour of the people by saving them from grendel, grendels mother, and the dragon. He sacrificed himself to save everyone which makes him a saviour. Also when it says "Do or die You’ll never make me because the world will never take my heart"
"Go and try; you’ll never break me"
also reminds me of Beowulf because he is so strong that nothing can break him even with the world against him.
Blaze of Glory by Bon Jovi (Written by Jon Bon Jovi released in 1990)
I Wake Up In The Morning
And I Raise My Weary Head
I Got An Old Coat For A Pillow
And The Earth Was Last Night's Bed
I Don't Know Where I'm Going
Only God Knows Where I've Been
I'm A Devil On The Run
A Six Gun Lover
A Candle In The Wind
When You're Brought Into This World
They Say You're Born In Sin
Well At Least They Gave Me Something
I Didn't Have To Steal Or Have To Win
Well They Tell Me That I'm Wanted
Yeah I'm A Wanted Man
I'm Colt In Your Stable
I'm What Cain Was To Abel
Mister Catch Me If You Can
I'm Going Down In A Blaze Of Glory
Take Me Now But Know The Truth
I'm Going Down In A Blaze Of Glory
Lord I Never Drew First
But I Drew First Blood
I'm No One's Son
Call Me Young Gun
You Ask About My Consience
And I Offer You My Soul
You Ask If I'll Grow To Be A Wise Man
Well I Ask If I'll Grow Old
You Ask Me If I Known Love
And What It's Like To Sing Songs In The Rain
Well I've Seen Love Come
And I've Seen It Shot Down
I've Seen It Die In Vain
Shot Down In A Blaze Of Glory
Take Me Now But Know The Truth
'cause I'm Going Down In A Blaze Of Glory
Lord I Never Drew First
But I Drew First Blood
I'm The Devil's Son
Call Me Young Gun
Each Night I Go To Bed
I Pray The Lord My Soul To Keep
No I Ain't Looking For Forgiveness
But Before I'm Six Foot Deep
Lord I Got To Ask A Favor
And I'll Hope You'll Understand
'cause I've Lived Life To The Fullest
Let This Boy Die Like A Man
Staring Down The Bullet
Let Me Make My Final Stand
Shot Down In A Blaze Of Glory
Take Me Now But Know The Truth
I'm Going Out In A Blaze Of Glory
Lord I Never Drew First
But I Drew First Blood
And I'm No One's Son
Call Me Young Gun
I'm A Young Gun
A connection can easily be seen between "Blaze of Glory" and Beowulf. In the chorus, it says "I never drew first but I drew first blood." This is also true with Beowulf, who in his first two fights, let his oppenent make the first move, but wounded or killed them first. In Beowulf's last fight, it can be said that he went "down in a blaze of glory." His last wish was to go down fighting, which he did, relating to Bon Jovi's lyric, "let this boy die like a man." Bon Jovi was making his final stand staring at a bullet, while Beowulf faced a dragon, but they both were aware that it would be their death.
"Immortal" by Adema (October 2002)
Let's fight
We're face to face
Loyalty is what I need to see from you
You're insecure
I can see the fear that breeds in your heart
Where will you run? Where will you hide?
I see the blood drip from your eyes
Who will survive? Let's get it on
And we'll fight
I know who you are
The leader of lost souls
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
I'm not afraid to die
My soul will travel on
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
Immortal
Immortal
I need the rush
There's nowhere you could hide before you die
Why won't you face me?
I can see the fear that's in your eyes
Where will you run? Where will you hide?
I see the blood drip from your eyes
Who will survive? Let's get it on
And we'll fight
I know who you are
The leader of lost souls
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
I'm not afraid to die
My soul will travel on
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
I know who you are
The leader of lost souls
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
I'm not afraid to die
My soul will travel on
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
Where will you run?
Where will you hide?
Where will you run?
Where will you hide?
Let's fight
I know who you are
The leader of lost souls
You can't kill me
I'm immortal
I'm not afraid to die
My soul will travel on
You can't kill me
I'm immortal [x2]
You can't kill me
Immortal!
You can't kill me
Immortal!
You can't kill me
Immortal!
You can't kill me
I chose the song "Immortal" by Adema because it clearly depicts Beowulf's attitude towards his involvement in battles and how he is determined to be the best of the best. Beowulf didn't want anyone to ever forget his name and the line in the song that says, "My soul will travel on, you can't kill me, I'm immortal" is a perfect representation of his determination. He would risk anything and never back down because he enjoys striving for power and to be immortal. Beowulf would do anything to defeat the monsters and be known for his immortality, therefore, I feel as though the lyrics to this song are a perfect match and go in great correlation with Beowulf himself.
"Broken Wings" By Alter Bridge
Writen by Miles Kennedy and Mark Tremonti
Fight the fight alone,
When the world is full of victims,
Dims the faded light in our souls,
Leave the piece alone,
How we are is slowly changing,
Dims the faded lights in our souls.
In my opinion seeing is to know,
The things we hold are always first to go,
Whose to say we won't end up alone
On broken wings I'm falling,
And it won't be long,
The skin on me burning by the fires of the sun,
On skinned knees I'm bleeding,
And it won't be long,
I've got to find that meaning,
That I've searched for so long
Cry ourselves to sleep,
We will sleep alone forever,
Will you lay me down in the same place with all the love,
Mend the broken home,
Care for them they are our brothers,
Save the fading light in our souls.
My opinion seeing is to know,
And what you give will always carry you,
And whose to say we wont survive it too.
On broken wings I'm falling,
And it won't be long,
The skin on me burning by the fires of the sun,
On skinned knees I'm bleeding,
And it won't be long,
I've got to find that meaning,
That I've searched for so long
Set afree all,
Relying on the will to make me all that I am and all I'll be,
Set afree all,
To fall between the cracks of memories of all that I am,
And all I'll be,
On broken wings I'm falling,
And it won't be long,
The skin on me burning by the fires of the sun,
On skinned knees I'm bleeding,
And it won't be long,
I've got to find that meaning,
That I've searched for so long
-------------------------------
This song is very relavent to story Beowulf for several reasons. It reflects a lot of the emotions the people of the Gates we're feeling as Grendal freely lurked around thier town. "Cry ourselves to sleep, We will sleep alone forever" is a good example of how the people may have felt.
"The skin on me is burning
By the fires of the sun
On skinned knees
I'm bleeding
And it won't be long
I've got to find that meaning
I'll search for so long"
I feel that these lines from the song reflect the anguish Beowulf faced as he battled the Dragon. He has lived long and now was serving his purpose once again, fighting the enemies of his brothers, which leads to the lines;
"Mend the broken homes, Care for them they are our brothers, Save the fading light in our souls"
This is what people wanted from Beowulf and what he, more often than not, delivered. So over all i feel as though this song greatly depicts the emotions and themes potrayed throughout the story Beowulf. Thank you and have a nice day.
"Governator"(Green Day, 2007)
He's at it again
And he's gonna win
Gonna take it for a hell ride anyway
He's on your side
Gonna throw you aside
And let the vultures pick apart what's left
Seems like everything was just a fraction of a second from being okay
So run and hide 'cause we're all gonna die
And let the vultures pick apart what's left
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
He's at it again
He's at it again
And it makes great television watching the world end
He's at it again
He's gonna win
Gonna take it for a joyride anyway
You're standing in line, better make up your mind
And let the bastard pick apart what's left of you
Seems like everything was just a fraction of being a dream
So run and hide 'cause we're all gonna die
Let the government decide what's left
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
He's at it again
He's at it again
And it makes great television watching the world end
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
Walk around I see
Million possibilities
Well I know
Nowhere to go
And I can't comprehend
Things this real seems so pretend
I know...I don't know
But I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
And it makes great television watching the world end
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
I'll be back
And it makes great television watching the world end
I'll be back
...............
I chose this song by Green Day because it portrays some of the same themes that continue through the story of Beowulf. The song describes "he being on your side", which could represent Beowulf on the Dane's side, ready and willing to fight. The Danes feel that Beowulf can kill and save their people as well as the character in the song, "He's at it again and he's gonna win".
"I'll be back again", is a line that is repeated through out the song, which is similar to what Beowulf tells his people. He hopes that he'll be back after he kills Grendel and even the dragon. The character in the song describes that "everything was a fraction of a dream", Beowulf relates to the character in the story because they underestimate the outcome of certain events, for Beowulf it would be the tragic battle with the dragon.
"eye of the tiger" by survivor
Risin' up, back on the street
Did my time, took my chances
Went the distance, now I'm back on my feet
Just a man and his will to survive
So many times, it happens too fast
You change your passion for glory
Don't lose your grip on the dreams of the past
You must fight just to keep them alive
Chorus:
It's the eye of the tiger, it's the cream of the fight
Risin' up to the challenge of our rival
And the last known survivor stalks his prey in the night
And he's watchin' us all in the eye of the tiger
Face to face, out in the heat
Hangin' tough, stayin' hungry
They stack the odds 'til we take to the street
For we kill with the skill to survive
chorus
Risin' up, straight to the top
Have the guts, got the glory
Went the distance, now I'm not gonna stop
Just a man and his will to survive
-----------------------------------
I chose "eye of the tiger" by survivor because the song perfectly portrays beowulf as a character. The song tells of taking chances and going the distance as Beowulf has done. How dreams of the past have faded and the fight to keep them alive; as Beowulf in the novel fights for his old glory, to be the hero of the people. Also there is a part in the songs chorus that says Risin' up to the challenge of our rival. This could be interpreted as Grendell as the rival and Beowulf is there to detatch him from the peoples lives.
Dragon Force "Through the Fire and Flames" Released August 3, 2006
On a cold winter morning in a time before the light
In flames of death's eternal reign we ride towards the fight
When the darkness has fallen down and the times are tough alright
The sound of evil laughter falls around the world tonight
Fighting hard fighting on for the steel through the wastelands evermore
The scattered souls will feel the hell bodies wasted on the shores
On the blackest plains in hell's domain we watch them as they go
In fire and pain now once again we know
So now we fly ever free, we're free before the thunderstorm
On towards the wilderness our quest carries on
Far beyond the sundown, far beyond the moonlight
Deep inside our hearts and all our souls
So far away we wait for the day
For the lives all so wasted and gone
We feel the pain of a lifetime lost in a thousand days
Through the fire and the flames we carry on
As the red day is dawning and the lightning cracks the sky
We'll raise our hand to the heavens above with resentment in their eyes*
Running back from the mid morning light with a burning in my heart†
We're banished from a time in a fallen land to a life beyond the stars
In your darkest dreams see to believe our destiny this time
And endlessly we'll all be free tonight
And on the wings of a dream so far beyond reality
All alone in desperation now the time has come
Lost inside you'll never find, lost within my own mind
Day after day this misery must go on
So far away we wait for the day
For the lives all so wasted and gone
We feel the pain of a lifetime lost in a thousand days
Through the fire and the flames we carry on
Now here we stand with their blood on our hands
We fought so hard now can we understand
I'll break the seal of this curse if I possibly can
For freedom of every man
So far away we wait for the day
For the lives all so wasted and gone
We feel the pain of a lifetime lost in a thousand days
Through the fire and the flames we carry on
I picked the song "Through the Fire and Flames" by Dragon Force. When you listen to the song you can jus picture Beowulf in an epic battle. The fisrt verse when it goes "On a cold winter morning in a time before the light
In flames of death's eternal reign we ride towards the fight
When the darkness has fallen down and the times are tough alright
The sound of evil laughter falls around the world tonight" I just picture Beowulf preparing for battle.
The verse "Now here we stand with their blood on our hands
We fought so hard now can we understand
I'll break the seal of this curse if I possibly can
For freedom of every man" is perfect for Beowulf fighting and defeating Grendel thus releaseing the men from the curse. The chorus goes "So far away we wait for the day
For the lives all so wasted and gone
We feel the pain of a lifetime lost in a thousand days
Through the fire and the flames we carry on" and is like Beowulfs creed, Beowulf fought for so long and in the end he knew that he was going to die and he was ok with it. He went to fight the dragon "Through the fire and the Flames"
Artist:Nelly (feat. Lincoln University Vocal Ensemble)
Song:Heart of A Champion
Released 2004
C'mon, uhh, uhh, uhh
Guess who's back 'urr derrty, S-T-L derby
I'm like Magic to Kareem, mayne you tell me I ain't Worthy
I ain't speakin 'bout a jersey, I'm speakin 'bout income
DID YOU HEAR THAT ELIZABETH? HERE COME THE BIG ONE!
I put mo' money in the community than you got in yo' budget
I wipe my a** with yo' advance to the toilet then flush it
My last stance be a stance of a General Custard
I hot dog cause I can, I got the cheese and mustard
I got the stats of a hall of famer - in just two records
That's why I'm back up at the Superbowl - with Julius Peppers
I got that cain't stop, won't stop, in my veins
That's why they cain't stop, won't stop, screamin the name
NELLY! NELLY! Go tell a friend to tell a friend
I'ma keep the same grin whether I, lose or win
Up, or down ten, I'ma fight to the end
[breathing hard] Let's go
Ain't no way they can stop me now
Cause I'm on my way, I can feel my reign comin
It's the blood of a champion, pumpin
Deep inside my veins, too much pride to be runnin
I'ma give what I can and more, even if
My blood, my sweat, and my tears don't mean nothin
It's the heart of a champion (it's the heart of me)
(It's the heart of a..) in me
I chose this song by Nelly because it is an example of Beowulf's aggressive attitude and great pride he had in himself. Each line from this chorus tells something that Beowulf could have been thinking or saying when he was preparing to fight Grendel or his mother. The song explains how he has too much pride to run or back down much like what Beowulf refused to do. Also when "I'ma give what I can and more, even if
My blood, my sweat, and my tears don't mean nothin" is said, that gives a great perspective of the effort Beowulf put into the fights and how he had to give everything to win those battles. Then when "It's the heart of a champion (it's the heart of me)
(It's the heart of a..) in me" is said its telling that after the fight is over he feels like a hero and invincible like Beowulf felt after his two wins and he felt like he could not be touched.
knights of Cydonia - Muse
Come ride with me
Through the veins of history
I'll show you how god
Falls asleep on the job
And how can we win
When fools can be kings
Don't waste your time
Or time will waste you
No one's gonna take me alive
The time has come to make things right
You and I must fight for our rights
You and I must fight to survive
No one's gonna take me alive
The time has come to make things right
You and I must fight for our rights
You and I must fight to survive
No one's gonna take me alive
The time has come to make things right
You and I must fight for our rights
You and I must fight to survive
i chose this song because it is about fighting for your natural rights. when Grendel was razing the land of the people he was denying them of their natural right to live. he was also denying Hrothgar of his rights as he was killing his people. Beowulf is the protagonist in this song he is who the song would be told from as he is the one fighting for their rights.
TNT by AC/DC
from the album TNT, released in december of 1975
oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi,
See me ride out of that sunset
On your color TV screen
Out for all that I can get
If you know what I mean
Women to the left of me
And women to the right
Ain't got no gun, ain't got no knife
Don't you start no fight
'Cause I'm T.N.T
I'm dynamite
T.N.T
And I'll win the fight
T.N.T
I'm a power load
T.N.T
Just watch me explode
I'm dirty, mean and mighty unclean
I'm a wanted man
Public enemy number one
Ya Understand
So lock up your daughter n' lock up your wife
Lock up your back door and run for your life
The man is back in town
So don't you mess me 'round
'Cause I'm T.N.T
I'm dynamite
T.N.T
And I'll win that fight
T.N.T
I'm a power load
T.N.T
Just watch me explode
T.N.T
oi, oi, oi
T.N.T
oi, oi, oi
T.N.T
oi, oi, oi
T.N.T
oi, oi, oi
T.N.T
I'm dynamite oi,
T.N.T
And I'll win the fight oi,
T.N.T
I'm a power load oi,
T.N.T
Watch me explode
There can be a connection between TNT and Beowulf. I chose this song mainly due to the chorus. The chorus says "And I'll win the fight oi," which can be easily connected to Beowulf because of the fights he wins against Grendel and his mother. Also, where it says "So don't you mess me 'round," this shows a connection to Beowulf because nobody wanted to mess with him. A third connection can be made between the 2 when the song says "Ain't got no gun, ain't got no knife
Don't you start no fight" because Beowulf didn't have a gun or a knife, he had a sword, and I'm sure no human wanted to fight him.
I Need a Hero
by Bonnie Tyler
(1986)
I need a hero
I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night
He’s gotta be strong
And he’s gotta be fast
And he’s gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the morning light
He’s gotta be sure
And it’s gotta be soon
And he’s gotta be larger than life
The song I Need a Hero by Bonnie Tyler reminds me of Beowulf when I hear it. The Danes needed a "hero" to save them numerous times from monsters that had been causing ruckus in the town for some time. The song also points out how someone, just like the Danes, needed help from a person with heroic traits. Beowulf shows his strength, courage, and loyalty throughout the story. Beowulf was a hero and was needed to accomplish tasks that were “larger than life”.
"Don't Look Back"
Written, Performed By Boston
Released August 2, 1978
Don't look back, a new day is breakin’
It's been too long since I felt this way
I don't mind where I get taken
The road is callin’, today is the day
I can see, it took so long just to realize
I'm much too strong not to compromise
Now I see what I am is holding me down
I'll turn it around
I finally see the dawn arrivin’
I see beyond the road I'm drivin’
It's a bright horizon and I'm awaken
I see myself in a brand new way
The sun is shinin’, the clouds are breakin’
Cause I can't lose now, there's no game to play
I can tell there's no more time left to criticize
I've seen what I could not recognize
Everything in my life was leading me on,
But I can be strong
I finally see the dawn arrivin’
I see beyond the road I'm drivin’
Don't look back, a new day is breakin’
It's been so long since I felt this way
I don't mind where I get taken
The road is callin’, today is the day
I can see, it took so long just to realize
I'm much too strong not to compromise
Now I see what I am is holding me down
I'll turn it around
I finally see the dawn arrivin’
I see beyond the road I'm drivin’
"Don't Look Back" by Boston reminds me exclusively of Beowulf. It makes me think of Beowulf's persistent attitude in how he never looked back in his quest to slay Grendel and Grendel's mother. Facing strong opposition, it would have been very easy for him to back down. Instead, he persevered through the tough times, and killed both monsters. It reminds me of the decision he made to fight Grendel without armor as well. He boldly made this controversial decision and never thought about it again or second guessed himself. This is truly the mark of a brave man. The quotes "Cause I can't lose now, there's no game to play," and "But I can be strong" remind me specifically of Beowulf's sheer strength and how he was the strongest man in the world. When I hear this part of the song, I know that Beowulf would never have lost his battles and would never have backed down to anyone.
Title: Emerald Sword
Artist:Rhapsody
Written by: Luca Turilli
Crossed the valleys the dust of midlands
to search for the third key to open the gates
Now I'm near the altar the secret inside
as legend told my beloved sun light the dragons eyes
On the way to the glory I'll honor my sword
to serve right ideals and justice for all
Finally happened the sun lit their eyes
the spell was creating strange games of light
Thanks to hidden mirrors I found my lost way
over the stones I reached the place it was a secret cave
In a long bloody battle that prophecies told
the light will prevail hence wisdom is gold
For the king for the land for the mountains
For the green valleys where dragons fly
For the glory the power to win the black lord
I will search for the emerald sword
Only a warrior with a clear heart
could have the honor to be kissed by the sun
Yes, I'm that warrior I followed my way
led by the force of cosmic soul I can reach the sword
On the way to the glory I'll honor my sword
to serve right ideals and justice for all
For the king for the land for the mountains
For the green valleys where dragons fly
For the glory the power to win the black lord
I will search for the emerald sword
-
I chose this song because it was written about a hero, who could have been from the Anglo-Saxon period, and how he goes off to fight a dragon. This relates to Beowulf because he was a warrior who fought a dragon alone with just his sword. This song also reminds me of Beowulf because it talks about his loyalty to his people and the king, but it also talks about the glory the warrior gets from fighting the dragons.
Another One Bites The Dustlyrics
released 12-22-1980
Performed by Queen
Written by John Deacon
Steve walks warily down the street,
With the brim pulled way down low
Ain't no sound but the sound of his feet,
Machine guns ready to go
Are you ready, Are you ready for this
Are you hanging on the edge of your seat
Out of the doorway the bullets rip
To the sound of the beat
Chorus
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
And another one gone, and another one gone
Another one bites the dust
Hey, I'm gonna get you too
Another one bites the dust
How do you think I'm going to get along,
Without you, when you're gone
You took me for everything that I had,
And kicked me out on my own
Are you happy, are you satisfied
How long can you stand the heat
Out of the doorway the bullets rip
To the sound of the beat
Chorus
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
There are plenty of ways you can hurt a man
And bring him to the ground
You can beat him
You can cheat him
You can treat him bad and leave him
When he's down
But I'm ready, yes I'm ready for you
I'm standing on my own two feet
Out of the doorway the bullets rip
Repeating the sound of the beat
___________________________________
This song instantly came to mind when asked to relate a song to Beowulf. Beowulf is a fight first think later type of guy. Rarely does Beowulf consider the potentially fatal results of fighting a non-human monster. In the song "Another One Bites the Dust," the song talks about Steve being ready to kill at any time. This can be directly linked to Beowulf. Beowulf is ready at all times as well. When he is called upon by the king to fight Grendel's mother he jumps to his feet. When the people were endangered by the dragon, Beowulf was ready.
In the line "There are plenty of ways you can hurt a man" also is similar to Beowulf's ability to overcome any difficulties and defeat his opponent. In his first battle, Beowulf relies on his hands to kill Grendel and against Grendel's mother he uses the sword off the wall. When fighting the dragon Beowulf even received some help from his friends. This comes to prove that there are plenty of ways to kill someone, and Beowulf experimented with many different ways.
"Hate This & I'll Love You" by Muse (Oct. 1999)
Oh I am growing tired,
Of allowing you to steal,
Everything I have, you're making me feel,
Like I was born to service you,
But I am growing by the hour.
You left us far behind,
So we all discard our souls.
And blaze through your skies,
So unafraid to die.
Cos I was born to destroy you,
And I am growing by the hour.
I'm getting strong in every way, yeah.
I have chosen this song because it reminds me of several aspects of Beowulf's story. To begin with, the first verse is clearly something Hrothgar would say to Grendel about his ravaging the mead hall Heorot every night for 12 years.
The second verse represents the group of Geat knights that Beowulf took with him to Denmark. Not only did they leave their homes ("You left us far behind") but they are willing to give their lives to fight for their leader, Beowulf ("So we all discard our souls.
And blaze through your skies,
So unafraid to die").
The final verse is reminiscent of Beowulf himself. He is gaining both strength, notoriety, and fortune ("And I am growing by the hour.
I'm getting strong in every way"). He is famous among the tribes for killing Grendel, Grendel's mother, and eventually the dragon, along with his previous accomplishments.
Also, the final verse suggests that Beowulf was "born to destroy" Grendel. This supports the Anglo-Saxon ideal of "wyrd" or fate.
Nickelback-If Today Was Your Last Day
Dark Horse Album, 2008
My best friend gave me the best advice
He said each day's a gift and not a given right
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by
That first step you take is the longest stride
If today was your last day
and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past
Donate every dime you have?
If today was your last day
Against the grain should be a way of life
What's worth the prize is always worth the fight
Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you'll never live it twice
I chose this song because I feel it is reflectant upon Beowulf's attitiude when going to fight Grendel and later Grendel's mother. It is clear that he was a man that lived in the moment. He fought as though it could be the last time his feet touched the earth and gave it his all. Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you'll never live it twice I felt these lines truly depicted how Beowulf fought, as though it was his only chance, as it would have been if he had not been successful in trying to slay the monsters.
For Whom the Bell Tolls by Metallica
Make his fight on the hill in the early day
Constant chill deep inside
Shouting gun, on they run through the endless grey
On the fight, for they are right, yes, by whos to say?
For a hill men would kill, why? they do not know
Suffered wounds testtheir pride
Men of five, still alive through the raging glow
Gone insane from the pain that they surely know
[chorus:]
For whom the bell tolls
Time marches on
For whom the bell tolls
Take a look to the sky just before you die
It is the last time you will
Blackened roar massive roar fills the crumbling sky
Shattered goal fills his soul with a ruthless cry
Stranger now, are his eyes, to this mystery
He hears the silence so loud
Crack of dawn, all is gone except the will to be
Now they will see what will be, blinded eyes to see
[chorus]
I chose this song because I feel it represents the mindset of Beowulf, and of most people in his era. He and his soldiers were so willing to fight, kill, and die in the pursuit of honor and glory, like those in the battle this song depicts. I think this is best summed up with the lines:
"For a hill men would kill, why? they do not know
Suffered wounds test their pride"
Honor was so paramount to who you were as a person in that era, that it's importance eclipsed your own personal health and safety. In the pursuit of pride men would literally throw themselves into certain death, and it is easy to see why. The heroes of that era were worshipped almost as Gods, like Beowulf was by the Danes.
Other lines such as
"Blackened roar massive roar fills the crumbling sky
Shattered goal fills his soul with a ruthless cry" seem to be more fitting of the Grendel, how he is such a violent beast, yet has a tortured soul. Ultimatel his goal of terrorizing the townsfolk is shattered as well, when he is thwarted by Beowulf. All things considered, I think that "For Whom the Bell Tolls" reflects very well on the mindset and motivations of several characters in Beowulf, as well as the general ideology of that time period.
Mike Sheerin
[b]"Scream" Vol. 3 The Subliminal Versese - Slipknot 2004. [/b]
Scream!
Fell forth, destroy the source,
Cant see and my voice is hoarse,
Trying to wash your hands off,
You should know better than to leave us in disgust,
Let me take you right to the point,
All you ever do is encage in disjoint,
That does it the time has arrived,
Take it or leave it you better not side!
You did it again,
All you ever did was doubt,
What do you want?
Let me tell you what it's all about,
One life
Nine Hearts
And Eighteen Hands that'll rip you all apart
We're here to decimate,
To show you all we will never fall,
Its gonna get serious.. and critical,
Don't Stop because the feeling is terminal,
Scream!
Scream like you never have before,
Scream!
Scream till you cant scream anymore,
Scream !
Scream like your throat is bleeding,
Scream!
Scream till your heart stops beating,
SCREAM FOR ME!
Get off of me, and get away,
Show the whole damn world this will never die,
No matter how the energies scatter,
Got to know nothing exists but the dream,
Give it all,
Till There's nothing left to give,
Save it all,
Quit saving you,
If you're going to let the pain inside,
Never under estimate the way you live your life,
Scream!
Scream like you never have before,
Scream!
Scream till you cant scream anymore,
Scream!
Scream like your throat is bleeding,
Scream!
Scream till your heart stops beating,
SCREAM FOR ME!
All our lives,
All we ever sacrificed has paid,
Everything,
Everything is possible to me,
Why no fate,
Found everything that I had to take away,
Save your life,
Save it all that mean something to me,
All our lives
All we ever sacrificed has paid,
Everything!
Everything is possible to me
Why no fight!
Found everything that I had to take away,
Save your life!
Save it all and make a better way,
This stress, is a feeling that you cant compress,
Everything your going through is total stress,
Are you going to be a momentary run around,
How will you handle their ? of stress,
All our lives,
All we ever sacrificed has paid,
Everything,
Everything is possible to me,
Why no fight,
Found everything that I had to take away,
Save your life,
Save it all and make a better way,
All our lives,
All we ever sacrificed has paid,
Everything!
Everything is possible to me
Why no fight!
Found everything that I had to take away,
Save your life!
Save it all and make a better way,
Scream!
--
The song "Scream" reminds me of a group of people who, against odds, fight (in some form of way) to make their lives, and others, better. This relates to Beowulf because of Beowulf's personality to be brave and save others. By his words, actions, and all around personal being, he puts courage in his men and followers.
Braindead Hero
For a long time he's been lucky man
No difference if it's good or bad
The trigger's his - the orders others
No way to stop the final blow
The message: here ya go
The countdown's on a roll
War against the world
All systems deadly armed
Machine, man, all in one
They're all oblivious to the crime
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - out of the sun he comes
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - feel the blazing guns
Now we got to blow his circuitry
Drain the poison from his veins
Degenerate - corrupt his memories
Fire at will - just do or die
The message: here ya go
The countdown's on a roll
War against the world
All systems deadly armed
Machine, man, all in one
They're all oblivious to the crime
Braindead hero
Braindead hero -like a hammer from the sky
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - supersonic cry
You better stay just where you are
Consequences in the fire
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - out of the sun he comes
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - feel the blazing guns
I choose this song by Udo because it reminds me of Beowulf and him being a braindead hero. The part in this song "The message: here ya go
The countdown's on a roll
War against the world
All systems deadly armed
Machine, man, all in one". This quote's basically relating to how Beowulf believes himself to be a "machine-man" and how he thinks that he can handle anything. Even against the strongest monster such as Grendel and his mother.
Braindead Hero
by Udo
For a long time he's been lucky man
No difference if it's good or bad
The trigger's his - the orders others
No way to stop the final blow
The message: here ya go
The countdown's on a roll
War against the world
All systems deadly armed
Machine, man, all in one
They're all oblivious to the crime
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - out of the sun he comes
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - feel the blazing guns
Now we got to blow his circuitry
Drain the poison from his veins
Degenerate - corrupt his memories
Fire at will - just do or die
The message: here ya go
The countdown's on a roll
War against the world
All systems deadly armed
Machine, man, all in one
They're all oblivious to the crime
Braindead hero
Braindead hero -like a hammer from the sky
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - supersonic cry
You better stay just where you are
Consequences in the fire
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - out of the sun he comes
Braindead hero
Braindead hero - feel the blazing guns
I choose this song by Udo because it reminds me of Beowulf and him being a braindead hero. The part in this song "The message: here ya go
The countdown's on a roll
War against the world
All systems deadly armed
Machine, man, all in one". This quote's basically relating to how Beowulf believes himself to be a "machine-man" and how he thinks that he can handle anything. Even against the strongest monster such as Grendel and his mother.
"Don't Fear the Reaper" by Blue Oyster Cult (Released in 1976)
All our times have come
Here but now they're gone
Seasons don't fear the reaper
Nor do the wind, the sun or the rain..we can be like they are
Come on baby...don't fear the reaper
Baby take my hand...don't fear the reaper
We'll be able to fly...don't fear the reaper
Baby I'm your man...
Valentine is done
Here but now they're gone
Romeo and Juliet
Are together in eternity...Romeo and Juliet
40,000 men and women everyday...Like Romeo and Juliet
40,000 men and women everyday...Redefine happiness
Another 40,000 coming everyday...We can be like they are
Come on baby...don't fear the reaper
Baby take my hand...don't fear the reaper
We'll be able to fly...don't fear the reaper
Baby I'm your man...
Love of two is one
Here but now they're gone
Came the last night of sadness
And it was clear she couldn't go on
Then the door was open and the wind appeared
The candles blew then disappeared
The curtains flew then he appeared...saying don't be afraid
Come on baby...and she had no fear
And she ran to him...then they started to fly
They looked backward and said goodby...she had become like they are
She had taken his hand...she had become like they are
Come on baby...don't fear the reaper
____________________________
I chose this song because this reminds me of the courage that Beowulf has. No matter what the situation was, Beowulf had to show so much bravery. Whether it was fighting Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon, Beowulf stayed calm and focused. This song relates to the story because it talks about no matter what is going on, you can not be afraid of the future.
"The End Is The Beginning Is The End" - Smashing Pumpkins
The sewers belch me up
The heavens spit me out
From ethers tragic I am born again
And now I'm with you now
Inside your world of wow
To move in desires made of deadly pretends
Till the end times begin
Is it bright where you are
Have the people changed
Does it make you happy you're so strange
And in your darkest hour, I hold secrets flame
You can watch the world devoured in it's pain
Strange
Climb my ribcage to
The replays run for you
Unhook my lights to peek behind the flash
For I am crystal chrome
I am shatter dome
I am kremlin king of angels avenged
To destroy the end
Is it bright where you are
Have the people changed
Does it make you happy you're so strange
And in your darkest hour, I hold secrets flame
You can watch the world devoured in it's pain
The zeppelins rain upon us
The guns of love disastrous
A shadow lies amongst you
To defy the future cast
Is it bright where you are
Have the people changed
Does it make you happy you're so strange
And in your darkest hour, I hold secrets flame
You can watch the world devoured in it's pain
Strange
Strange
I chose the song "The End is the Beginning is the End" because it reminds me of Beowulf. The first lines say that he is with us now, which is true because his story has lived on and therefore so does he. The song also says that in the darkest hour he holds the secret flame which I take to mean he knows the solution to the problem the Danes are having. Finally it says he is the king to destroy the end, and I believe that means that the Danes are stuck and Beowulf is the one who can take them out of that. Whether the Smashing Pumpkins meant for this song to mean so much, I don't know, but the connections I've found are real and very interesting.
Hero/Heroine by Boys Like Girls
Written by Martin Johnson
Release date: August 22, 2006
It's too late baby, there's no turning around
I've got my hands in my pocket and my head in a cloud
This is how I do
When I think about you
I never thought that you could break me apart
I keep a sinister smile and a hole in my heart
You want to get inside
Then you can get in line
But not this time
Cause you caught me off guard
Now I'm running and screaming
I feel like a hero...
I chose the song "Hero/Heroine" by Boys Like Girls because this verse seems like it was almost written about Beowulf. Beowulf is a little stubborn and hardheaded, and he showed this by not backing down from the fight. He never let Grendel scare him and he didn't back down from the fight, Beowulf proved himself to be almost indestructible, able to withstand the battle with the most feared monster of the village.
At one point, the lyrics say "You want to get inside/ Then you can get in line/ But not this time." This reminds me of the part where Grendel enters the hall and tries to kill Beowulf, but Beowulf easily defeats Grendel.
The two lines of the pre-chorus ("Cause you caught me off guard/ Now I'm running and screaming") accurately depict Beowulf's mindset after Grendel kills one of his men. After Beowulf sees this, he fights the monster, killing him and then goes after his mother.
After the battles, Beowulf is seen as a hero and is praised by the people of the kingdom.
heart of a champion by nelly
Ain't no way they can stop me now Nelly
Cause I'm on my way, I can feel my reign comin
It's the blood of a champion, pumpin
Deep inside my veins, too much pride to be runnin
I'ma give what I can and more, even if
My blood, my sweat, and my tears don't mean nothin
It's the heart of a champion (it's the heart of me)
(It's the heart of a..) in me
I'm the first pick, the first round, signin bonus profound
Playin for his hometown, reppin for the home ground
And gettin bucked like Michael Redd, tell 'em again
I gets bucked like Michael Redd, heard what I said?
The MV-P of the game, intensity still the same
I'm shootin out from my reign, with Peyton Manning type aim
Can't stop me from scorin so they results to just hackin
So there's, three of us now - me, A.I. and Shaq'n
From the look to the eyes I say
Cover man with more heart than Hallmark on Valentine's Day
I'm the one that you've been Raven about, like Ray Lewis
I think it hard to go and change your route
Cause you don't know if I'm blitzin or if I'm sittin and readin
Waitin for you to go and trip, drop back and throw up a pick, man
The reason why i chose this song was because all throughout the story beowulf would fight monsters and everytime he brouht the fight to them. From the time he fought grendel with his bare hands. Down to his final moments fighting the dragon. He gave his all and he never gave up.And that in the end is what made him a champion.
"Toy Soldiers"
by Eminiem
Step by step, heart to heart, left right left
We all fall down like toy soldiers
Bit by bit, torn apart, we never win
But the battle wages on for toy soldiers
[Verse 1]
I'm supposed to be the soldier who never blows his composure
Even though I hold the weight of the whole world on my shoulders
I ain't never supposed to show it, my crew ain't supposed to know it
Even if it means goin' toe to toe with a Benzino it don't matter
I'd never drag them in battles that I can handle unless I absolutely have to
I'm supposed to set an example
I need to be the leader, my crew looks for me to guide 'em
If some * ever does pop off, I'm supposed to be beside 'em
-- I choose this song because for me, it reminds me of Beowulf's dedication to his men and reputation. He is very serious about his battles, for instance with Grendel and the dragon. His people honored him and it is expected of him to lead them to victory. I feel as though Beowulf did feel pressured to meet everyone's expectations and that's why I choose this song
My friend of Misery-(1991)
Metallica
You just stood there screaming
Fearing no one was listening to you
They say the empty can rattles the most
The sound of your voice must soothe you
Hearing only what you want to hear
And knowing only what youve heard
You youre smothered in tragedy
Youre out to save the world
Misery
You insist that the weight of the world
Should be on your shoulders
Misery
Theres much more to life than what you see
My friend of misery
You still stood there screaming
No one caring about these words you tell
My friend before your voice is gone
One mans fun is anothers hell
These times are sent to try mens souls
But somethings wrong with all you see
You youll take it on all yourself
Remember, misery loves company
Misery
You insist that the weight of the world
Should be on your shoulders
Misery
Theres much more to life than what you see
My friend of misery
You just stood there creaming
My friend of misery
I choose this song because despite Beowulf being a hero I think of him as a fool for what happened. He tried to take on others problems and put the weight of the world on his shoulder and it only led to his misery. He was glorified until he had to fight the dragon, that ending up killing him. He died trying to deal with problems that were not even his and there is nothing more miserable than death.
Written: Vince Gill
Performed by: Sarah Evans (2004)
"There's No Place That Far"
I can't imagine, any greater fear
Then waken up, with out you near
And though the sun, will still shine on
My whole world, would all be gone
But not for long
Chorus
If I had to run
If I had to crawl
If I had to swim a hundred rivers
Just to climb a thousand walls
Always know that I would find a way
To get to where you are
There's no place that far
It wouldn't matter, why we're apart
The lonely miles, two stubborn hearts
And nothing short, of God above
Could turn me away, from your love
I need you that much
repeat chorus
Oh if I had to run
(if I had to run)
Of I had to crawl
(If I had to crawl)
If I had to swim a hundred rivers
Just to climb a thousand walls
Always know that I would find a way
To get to where you are
There's no place that far
Baby there's no place that far
I chose this song because it is about loosing someone so influential and important.It is relevant to Beowulf because he was a hero and someone everyone knew and loved. Sarah Evans goes on to say "if I had to run if I had to crawl if I had to swim a hundred rivers..." she would do anything to be with or see her loved one. All though the song is current heroes today are the same as in Beowulf's time. The most important line is "I can't imagine any greater fear than wakeing up without you here," Beowulf was so strong and everyone wanted him to be around and protect them. Beowulf is a character that was loved and missed and the story as is the character in the song. Although it was not written for or about Beowulf it still reminds me of a hero that you can't live without like Beowulf.
A Hero Comes Home
by:Idina Menzel
Out of the mist of history
He'll come again
Sailing on ships across the sea
To a wounded Nation
Signs of a savoir
Like fire on the water
It's what we prayed for
One of our own
Just wait
Though while he may roam
Always
A hero comes home
He goes where no one has gone
But always
A hero comes home
Deep in the heart of darkness sparks
A dream of lies
Surrounded by hopelessness
He finds the will to fight
Theres no surrender
Always remember
It doesn't end here
We're not alone
Just wait
Though while he may roam
Always
A hero comes home
He goes where no one has gone
But always
A hero comes home
And he will come back on the crimson tide
Dead or alive
And even though we know the bridge has burned
He will return
He will return
Just wait
Though while he may roam
Always
A hero comes home
He knows of places unknown
Always
A hero comes home
Someday they'll carve in stone
"The hero comes home"
He goes and comes back alone
But always
A hero comes home
Just wait
Though while he may roam
Always
A hero comes home
This song on the Beowulf soundtrack portrays Beowulfs heroic characteristics. The song explains how whenever a hero forfills hes duty, he always manages to return to his rightfull place. Beowulf did succeed and defeated Grendel as well as his mother. When he did overpast them he decided to return to his home, and back home everyone was overwellened to have their hero back. Thats why i picked this song for this assingment.
Dream Theater
"The Spirit Carries On" 1999
Written by John Pettruchi, Mike Portnoy, and James Labrie
Where did we come from,
Why all here?
Where do we go when we die?
What lies beyond
And what lay before?
Is anything certain in life?
They say, "Life is too short,"
"The here and the now"
And "You're only given one shot"
But could there be more,
Have I lived before,
Or could this be all that we've got?
If I die tomorrow
I'd be all right
Because I believe
That after we're gone
The spirit carries on
I used to be frightened of dying
I used to think death was the end
But that was before
I'm not scared anymore
I know that my soul will transcend
I may never find all the answers
I may never understand why
I may never prove
What I know to be true
But I know that I still have to try
If I die tomorrow
I'd be all right
Because I believe
That after we're gone
The spirit carries on
Victoria:
"Move on, be brave
Don't weep at my grave
Because I am no longer here
But please never let
Your memory of me disappear"
Nicholas:
Safe in the light that surrounds me
Free of the fear and the pain
My questioning mind
Has helped me to find
The meaning in my life again
Victoria's real
I finally feel
At peace with the girl in my dreams
And now that I'm here
It's perfectly clear
I found out what all of this means
If I die tomorrow
I'd be all right
Because I believe
That after we're gone
The spirit carries on
I believe this song is an accurate representation of Beowulf because of its meaning. The song itself represents a desire to live beyond death in some way. This is Beowulf's desire. To become a legend, and there for be remembered for all of eternity. This can be shown in the chorus of the song "If I die tomorrow, I'd be all right, Because I believe,
That after we're gone, The spirit carries on" I feel that represents Beowulf as he was content with his death, and had achieved many great feats over his life time, and had ruled the Geats for 50 years before he was killed at the hands of the dragon. He was content to die, because he had gained the fame neccessary to carry his spirit, and the spirit of Beowulf is still around today, as 2000 Years after it was first written down, we still study it.
Let the Bodies Hit the Floor (2001)
by Drowning Pool
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Beaten, why for (why for)
Can't take much more
Here we go here we go here we go, now
One, nothing wrong with me
Two, nothing wrong with me
Three, nothing wrong with me
Four, nothing wrong with me
One ,something's got to give
Two, something's got to give
Three, something's got to give
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Now!
Push me again (again)
This is the end
Here we go here we go here we go, now
One, nothing wrong with me
Two, nothing wrong with me
Three, nothing wrong with me
Four, nothing wrong with me
One ,something's got to give
Two, something's got to give
Three, something's got to give
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Skin to skin, blood and bone
You're all by yourself but you're not alone
You wanted in and now you're here
Driven by hate, consumed by fear
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
One, nothing wrong with me
Two, nothing wrong with me
Three, nothing wrong with me
Four, nothing wrong with me
One ,something's got to give
Two, something's got to give
Three, something's got to give
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Hey...Go!
Hey...Go!
Hey...Go!
Hey...Go!
Hey...Go!
-------
While reading the battle between Beowulf and Grendel, this was the song that was running through my head. Bravery is usually driven by some other emotion, hate for an enemy, fear for your people. The lyrics of this song relate a lot to Beowulf, "Driven by hate, consumed by fear". These emotions are running through Beowulf during his battles. His hatred for his enemy, Grendel, or fear for the lives of the town's people. Beowulf believes he is the best, "nothing wrong with me", he is the towns last hope for peace so he cannot fail. Also, in the song it says, "You're all by yourself but you're not alone
You wanted in and now you're here". This relates to Beowulf because he is confident he can defeat Grendel all by himself, with no help from anyone else or from any weapons or armor.
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