The history and politics of the English protest song

1982

Shipbuilding

Tune: Original
Lyrics: Elvis Costello
Composer: Clive Langer

This song’s first, intensely moving, rendition was by Robert Wyatt, an overtly political musician. It is – formally at least – a protest at the Falklands/Malvinas war, fought by Margaret Thatcher’s government. But it is couched in a sinuously sweet melody, and acknowledges the dilemmas of opposition. War kills, but it brings work and clothes for the kids.

Cause: Anti-militarist
Theme: War and Peace | Political Process
Addressed to: General Public | Voters
Target of Protest: Elected Representatives | War
Proposal/Solution: Pacifism