Meaning of "The Draft Dodger Rag" by Pete Seeger

The Draft Dodger Rag by Pete Seeger is a satirical commentary on the absurdity of war and the lengths people will go to in order to avoid serving in the military. The narrator, representing the mindset of many young men during times of conflict, uses humor and exaggeration to highlight the fear and desperation that drives individuals to come up with all sorts of excuses to avoid being sent to the battlefield. The lyrics also serve as a critique of blind obedience to authority and the hypocrisy of those who espouse patriotism but are unwilling to make sacrifices themselves. By showcasing the ridiculousness of the excuses given by the narrator, Seeger exposes the folly of war and the toll it takes on the individuals who are called upon to fight. The song ultimately calls into question the true cost of war and challenges the notion of heroism by presenting a more cynical and humorous take on the realities of wartime service.