Meaning of "Make America Great Again" by Frank Turner

"Make America Great Again" by Frank Turner is a politically charged song that explores the desire to restore America to its former glory while advocating for unity, compassion, and equality. The song begins with the acknowledgement that the artist, being an Englishman, may not fully comprehend the complexities of American issues but still wants to contribute to the conversation. By using the phrase "Make America Great Again" in the song's title and lyrics, Turner addresses the slogan popularized during the 2016 US presidential election and reclaims it as a call to action for positive change.

Turner immediately confronts the issue of racism, suggesting that to make America great again, racists must be made to feel ashamed of their beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion, calling for these qualities to be in fashion again. This can be seen as an indictment of the current political climate, where divisive rhetoric and exclusionary policies have seemingly gained traction.

The artist then reflects on his own experiences traveling through various parts of America, emphasizing the positive encounters he has had, such as encountering common sense, hospitality, and warmth from Americans. However, he bemoans the fact that the name and actions of the President have become too significant in shaping America's image. He believes that the truth should be self-evident, drawing a parallel to the American revolutionary fight against British rule to assert their independence. Turner reminds listeners of the principles upon which America was founded and urges them to refocus on these ideals rather than solely being influenced by the current political climate.

Ellis Island, a symbol of American immigration history, is referenced as a place where everyone can start again. This reflects the belief that America is a nation of immigrants and should remain welcoming and inclusive. Turner invokes the imagery of the "shining city on the hill," a metaphor often used to describe America's potential to be a beacon of hope and freedom. He challenges the notion of illegal immigration, suggesting that in this city, nobody should be considered illegal.

In the final verses, Turner advocates for being a friend to America's oldest allies and not hesitating to call them out when they falter. This demonstrates the importance of holding one another accountable and reminds the nation to strive for its best self. By doing so, America can reclaim its greatness.

Overall, "Make America Great Again" encapsulates Frank Turner's call for America to rediscover its core values and aspirations. The song challenges the divisive rhetoric and policies that have permeated the country's political landscape, advocating for unity, compassion, and equality as the means to achieve greatness once again.