The Great American Novel” is a song by Larry Norman, released on his 1972 album. The song is known for its satirical lyrics, which critique various aspects of American society and politics. Norman’s witty and pointed observations are delivered in a folk-rock style, making the song both musically engaging and thought-provoking. The song’s introduction sets the tone for this critique, blending humor with a serious message about the state of the nation. Most people are eagerly searching to know about The great American novel (Larry Norman) – Lyrics. In this article you get detailed information about The great American novel (Larry Norman) – Lyrics. 

Source: Entertainment Weekly

The great American novel (Larry Norman) 

Norman addresses various social and political issues, including corruption, hypocrisy, and injustice. He uses irony and humor to highlight the contradictions and flaws within American culture, presenting a bleak but compelling narrative. The song’s structure is straightforward, with a repetitive melody that emphasizes the lyrical content, allowing listeners to focus on the message. Most people are eagerly searching to know about The great American novel (Larry Norman) – Lyrics. In this article you get detailed information about The great American novel (Larry Norman) – Lyrics. 

The great American novel (Larry Norman) – Lyrics

I was born and raised an orphan in a land that once was free

In a land that poured its love out on the moon;

And I grew up in the shadows of your silos filled with grain,

But you never helped to fill my empty spoon.

And when I was ten you murdered law with courtroom politics,

And you learned to make a lie sound just like truth;

But I know you better now and I don’t fall for all your tricks,

And you’ve lost the one advantage of my youth.

You kill a black man at midnight just for talking to your daughter,

Then you make his wife your mistress and you leave her without water;

And the sheet you wear upon your face is the sheet your children sleep on,

At every meal you say a prayer; you don’t believe but still you keep on.

And your money says in God we trust,

But it’s against the law to pray in school;

You say we beat the Russians to the moon,

And I say you starved your children to do it.

You are far across the ocean but the war is not your own,

And while you’re winning theirs, you’re gonna lose the one at home;

Do you really think the only way to bring about the peace

Is to sacrifice your children and kill all your enemies?

The politicians all make speeches while the news men all take note,

And they exaggerate the issues as they shove them down our throats;

Is it really up to them whether this country sinks or floats?

Well I wonder who would lead us if none of us would vote.

Well my phone is tapped and my lips are chapped from whispering through the fence,

You know every move I make, or is that just coincidence?

Well you try to make my way of life a little less like jail,

If I promise to make tapes and slides and send them through the mail.

And your money says in God we trust,

But it’s against the law to pray in school;

You say we beat the Russians to the moon,

And I say you starved your children to do it.

You say all men are equal, all men are brothers,

Then why are the rich more equal than others?

Don’t ask me for the answer, I’ve only got one:

That a man leaves his darkness when he follows the Son

The great American novel (Larry Norman) – Meaning

1. Hypocrisy in Politics and Society:
   • Norman addresses the duplicity he sees in American politics and society. He highlights how leaders and institutions often fail to live up to the values they profess, creating a stark contrast between the country’s ideals and its practices.
2. Social Injustice and Inequality:
   • The song speaks to issues of racial inequality, poverty, and social injustice. Norman points out the systemic issues that prevent the American dream from being accessible to everyone, criticizing the nation’s failure to provide equal opportunities and justice for all its citizens.
3. Disillusionment with the American Dream:
   • “The Great American Novel” reflects a sense of disillusionment with the American dream. Norman’s lyrics suggest that the dream has become corrupted and unattainable for many, calling into question the validity and attainability of this cherished national ideal.
4. Call for Awareness and Change:
   • Despite its critical tone, the song also serves as a call to action, urging listeners to recognize these societal flaws and work towards meaningful change. Norman encourages a reflective and critical approach to understanding one’s country and its values.
5. Use of Irony and Satire:
   • Norman employs irony and satire throughout the song to make his points more impactful. By using humor and wit, he effectively critiques serious issues in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Overall Message: “The Great American Novel” is a bold and incisive critique of American society, encouraging listeners to look beyond the surface and question the realities of their nation. It challenges the audience to reflect on the discrepancies between American ideals and the actual experiences of its people, advocating for greater honesty, justice, and equality.