Monday, March 6, 2017
The Stasis in "Respect" by Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin's song enforced stasis theory through its explicit call to action which demanded respect. Stasis theory is used to build a stable foundation for an argument or statement. Franklin mastered Otis Redding's original song into an empowering one for women everywhere. She adds in lyrics that emphasize giving respect to women because they are worthy of it and they have the power to leave their husband should they be treated unfairly. Franklin writes the lyrics that the lover might find the woman gone when he comes home because he did not respect her enough to warrant her to stay in that relationship. This is a blatant demand for action of men everywhere to treat women fairly and equally as how men would like to be treated by their women as well. Given that "Respect" was released in 1967 when there were still lots of progress to be made, Franklin offers a solution to the systemic prejudice that is inflicted upon women. The way she released it as a pop song also helped deliver the message across because people would be singing it and spreading this call to action.
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The call to action is loud and clear and I like how you mentioned the platform by which she sent her message, being a pop song. I do not see her message as a solution so much as a public service announcement calling attention to gender inequality.
ReplyDeleteI think that this song is most certainly a call to action and love that you noted that Aretha's unique platform, a pop song, helped her to deliever this message across the country. While I don't necessarily see her proposing a solution in the song, I whole heartedly agree that "Respect" was a blatant call to action and demand for change.
ReplyDeleteDiction, when seen in a research paper, poem, novel, or even song, is a powerful tool. By adding tune and rhythm, a song is born and it is an effective way to spread a message. The 60s were a time when different genres of music were being explored, so this was a creative way for Franklin to voice her views on female empowerment.
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ReplyDeleteYou're so right! There are few texts as explicitly in the action stasis as this song! :o)
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