XTC — Dear God
Album: SkylarkingAvg rating:
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Total ratings: 2087
Length: 3:33
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Dear God, hope you got the letter, and
I pray you can make it better down here
I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer
But all the people that you made in your image
See them starving on their feet
'Cause they don't get enough to eat from God
I can't believe in you
Dear God, sorry to disturb you, but
I feel that I should be heard loud and clear
We all need a big reduction in amount of tears
And all the people that you made in your image
See them fighting in the street
'Cause they can't make opinions meet about God
I can't believe in you
Did you make disease, and the diamond blue?
Did you make mankind after we made you?
And the devil too
Dear God, don't know if you noticed, but
Your name is on a lot of quotes in this book
Us crazy humans wrote it, you should take a look
And all the people that you made in your image
Still believing that junk is true
Well I know it ain't and so do you, dear God
I can't believe in
I don't believe in
I won't believe in heaven and hell
No saints, no sinners, no devil as well
No pearly gates, no thorny crown
You're always letting us humans down
The wars you bring, the babes you drown
Those lost at sea and never found
And it's the same the whole world 'round
The hurt I see helps to compound
The Father, Son and Holy Ghost
Is just somebody's unholy hoax
And if you're up there you'll perceive
That my heart's here upon my sleeve
If there's one thing I don't believe in
It's you
Dear God
I pray you can make it better down here
I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer
But all the people that you made in your image
See them starving on their feet
'Cause they don't get enough to eat from God
I can't believe in you
Dear God, sorry to disturb you, but
I feel that I should be heard loud and clear
We all need a big reduction in amount of tears
And all the people that you made in your image
See them fighting in the street
'Cause they can't make opinions meet about God
I can't believe in you
Did you make disease, and the diamond blue?
Did you make mankind after we made you?
And the devil too
Dear God, don't know if you noticed, but
Your name is on a lot of quotes in this book
Us crazy humans wrote it, you should take a look
And all the people that you made in your image
Still believing that junk is true
Well I know it ain't and so do you, dear God
I can't believe in
I don't believe in
I won't believe in heaven and hell
No saints, no sinners, no devil as well
No pearly gates, no thorny crown
You're always letting us humans down
The wars you bring, the babes you drown
Those lost at sea and never found
And it's the same the whole world 'round
The hurt I see helps to compound
The Father, Son and Holy Ghost
Is just somebody's unholy hoax
And if you're up there you'll perceive
That my heart's here upon my sleeve
If there's one thing I don't believe in
It's you
Dear God
Comments (418)add comment
I'd like to have this song piped into a few thousand churches just to see heads explode.
Zep wrote:
Works for me! ...should be followed by "If God was one of us"!
I rated this one '10', which Bill refers to as "Godlike."
Works for me! ...should be followed by "If God was one of us"!
I rated this one '10', which Bill refers to as "Godlike."
slikr wrote:
No 11 , Deffo 11
HA I had the same thought but is a 10 !
No 11 , Deffo 11
tm wrote:
WELL STATED!! ...and, getting worse by the minute!
Dear God - fuck you and your supreme court shills…
WELL STATED!! ...and, getting worse by the minute!
Dear God - fuck you and your supreme court shills…
Its all so much more amazing when you take God out of the equation.....
Not to mention you get to avoid all that disappointment when your dead
Not to mention you get to avoid all that disappointment when your dead
This should be followed by "What if God Was one of Us"!
Had to bump it up to 10 just for the irony.
GODLIKE!!!
Well said,I certainly think along the same lines✌️
I respect your views and hope you are right.
But, look at it from a non-believer's point of view: If this is it, then we need to do everything we can to minimize the pain and suffering in this life. We must act on our own and together and not hope that somewhere out there is something that will take care of it for us. It's in our hands, not his.
ace-marc wrote:
My thoughts exactly.
They have a wealth of amazing songs.
The radio hits are the weakest, IMHO.
Hahaha! Love "Pink Thing"!!!!
My thoughts exactly.
They have a wealth of amazing songs.
The radio hits are the weakest, IMHO.
Hahaha! Love "Pink Thing"!!!!
NEGATIVE 10! I HATE THIS SONG.
stevesaw wrote:
I respect your views and hope you are right.
But, look at it from a non-believer's point of view: If this is it, then we need to do everything we can to minimize the pain and suffering in this life. We must act on our own and together and not hope that somewhere out there is something that will take care of it for us. It's in our hands, not his.
This is NOT just a place to "wipe your feet" before going on to other "nice places."
I respect your views and hope you are right.
But, look at it from a non-believer's point of view: If this is it, then we need to do everything we can to minimize the pain and suffering in this life. We must act on our own and together and not hope that somewhere out there is something that will take care of it for us. It's in our hands, not his.
This is NOT just a place to "wipe your feet" before going on to other "nice places."
The lyrics are spot on. Thank you Andy, thank you Colin. Just wish you could've gotten past your differences and continued on.
The discussion on this song is fascinating - as much so as the song itself. Interesting reading.
c.
c.
Bill,
Love your rare comments.
Love your rare comments.
Love the video on this one too.
tlbritton wrote:
I respect your views and hope you are right.
But, look at it from a non-believer's point of view: If this is it, then we need to do everything we can to minimize the pain and suffering in this life. We must act on our own and together and not hope that somewhere out there is something that will take care of it for us. It's in our hands, not his.
I have always cranked this song - heartbreaking and profound. However, I'm a believer and have hope and faith in the promises of a place with no more pain, death, and mourning. How can you not have that hope and carry on in this crazy world. Peace - RP you guys need a peace emoji (there prob is and I didn't see it!).
I respect your views and hope you are right.
But, look at it from a non-believer's point of view: If this is it, then we need to do everything we can to minimize the pain and suffering in this life. We must act on our own and together and not hope that somewhere out there is something that will take care of it for us. It's in our hands, not his.
This has always been an amazing song but I just noticed the incredible guitar work (not to mention the violin) for the first time.
Far wrote:
This is completely wrong. I don't think you 'understand' the Michaelson-Morley experiment.
Oh come on. The Michaelson-Morley experiments long ago disproved the existence of all imaginary metaphysical beings. Incidentally also disproving a ( false ) logic/science tenet that one cannot prove "something does not exist". Fascinating stuff, but dry if you are expecting sensationalism.
This is completely wrong. I don't think you 'understand' the Michaelson-Morley experiment.
Eine der Bands, die gerne mal live gehört hätte!
If you want to listen to Jethro Tull, and you want it to be the BEST quality possible - look for the remasters done by Steve Wilson.
Who happens to be the guy in Porcupine Tree, etc.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
Who happens to be the guy in Porcupine Tree, etc.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
It's an XTC song, not an anthem
redeyespy wrote:
Yes, I agree. I think there is much more to life than current science can offer us. And many of us need a little belief in something to help get through the day.
What bugs me is things like pretending you (meaning a general "you", not anyone here in particular) know God's thoughts and wishes. Or that your belief is better than mine. Or that God needs money. Or when your beliefs contradict science and you persecute those who are telling the truth ala Copernicus, Galileo, etc. Or when your belief compels you to pass laws about what a woman can and cannot do with her own body. I think part of the debate is about these overstepping of boundaries, not so much faith/belief itself, which I think is part of the human condition.
suitep wrote:
And it's always so odd that people argue about religion. Religion just shouldn't be debated, as you cannot substantiate your arguments with facts - only faith.
Yes, indeed, and faith utilizes other modalities besides the cerebral. There is more to the essence of life than scientific facts. But again, debate is fruitless.
Yes, I agree. I think there is much more to life than current science can offer us. And many of us need a little belief in something to help get through the day.
What bugs me is things like pretending you (meaning a general "you", not anyone here in particular) know God's thoughts and wishes. Or that your belief is better than mine. Or that God needs money. Or when your beliefs contradict science and you persecute those who are telling the truth ala Copernicus, Galileo, etc. Or when your belief compels you to pass laws about what a woman can and cannot do with her own body. I think part of the debate is about these overstepping of boundaries, not so much faith/belief itself, which I think is part of the human condition.
wgsu_1978 wrote:
My thoughts exactly.
They have a wealth of amazing songs.
The radio hits are the weakest, IMHO.
Can we please get past "XTC's Greatest FM Radio Hits" and dig a little deeper into their magnificent catalog?
"Pink Thing" would be a fun place to start.
"Pink Thing" would be a fun place to start.
My thoughts exactly.
They have a wealth of amazing songs.
The radio hits are the weakest, IMHO.
Prophetic for sure.
5 Down in today's NY Times crossword puzzle: Onetime British band whose name consists of letters suggesting "bliss".
Can we please get past "XTC's Greatest FM Radio Hits" and dig a little deeper into their magnificent catalog?
"Pink Thing" would be a fun place to start.
"Pink Thing" would be a fun place to start.
I have always cranked this song - heartbreaking and profound. However, I'm a believer and have hope and faith in the promises of a place with no more pain, death, and mourning. How can you not have that hope and carry on in this crazy world. Peace - RP you guys need a peace emoji (there prob is and I didn't see it!).
I think for the voice This album is perfect in every way - how can i rate it 11? More XTC on RP please
XTC didn't like the sound engineering of Skylarking (amongst other things about the recording!) and they eventually found the issue and re-released it titled the 'corrected polarity' version. Check it out if you like the album - i was surprised at the difference in sound quality and depth.
XTC didn't like the sound engineering of Skylarking (amongst other things about the recording!) and they eventually found the issue and re-released it titled the 'corrected polarity' version. Check it out if you like the album - i was surprised at the difference in sound quality and depth.
I hate it when I hear a song like this on RP and decide to stop what I'm doing in order to rate the song and give it the 10 it deserves, only to go to the website and find that I've already done so.
Relevant song back then and even more relevant now.
HA I had the same thought but is a 10 !
einsteinstoe wrote:
einsteinstoe wrote:
I would rate this Godlike.....but.....9.
This needs to be in rotation more.
Forever outstanding !
one of the best songs ever
stalfnzo wrote:
Seems an intrinsic part of human nature to have a concept of god, it's been around for as long as humanity, so it makes you wonder. Apart from wars, religion has also given many people hope and inspiration, and has greatly helped to organize societies along common values and principles.
This song speaks the truth. We created god, not the other way around. Look at all the suffering in the world caused by organized religion, a man-made monstrosity.
Seems an intrinsic part of human nature to have a concept of god, it's been around for as long as humanity, so it makes you wonder. Apart from wars, religion has also given many people hope and inspiration, and has greatly helped to organize societies along common values and principles.
With the Steven Wilson 5.1 mix coming out and those involved doing press, the ill will still continues.
Among other things, Partridge has said that Todd is a good arranger but a not-so-good engineer.
Todd has said that Andy is a prick...
Among other things, Partridge has said that Todd is a good arranger but a not-so-good engineer.
Todd has said that Andy is a prick...
Take the feeling awe, forming dear might
Deep fairy sings, momma take the kiss and ahn
There my aid attuned
year after year swimming in the wish bowl.
stalfnzo wrote:
I think this song is MUCH more complex than that.
Of course, he rails against God as nonexistent - which is nonsense if he really didn't believe. He'd simply walk away rather than waste his breath.
Instead, it's a petulant, impotent - but completely self-aware - frustration that he doesn't want to believe, but can't help himself. And so he's angry. and disappointed.
He half-heartedly includes all the usual "you don't exist" arguments, while still addressing God directly.
It's some really well done lyricism.
This song speaks the truth. We created god, not the other way around. Look at all the suffering in the world caused by organized religion, a man-made monstrosity.
I think this song is MUCH more complex than that.
Of course, he rails against God as nonexistent - which is nonsense if he really didn't believe. He'd simply walk away rather than waste his breath.
Instead, it's a petulant, impotent - but completely self-aware - frustration that he doesn't want to believe, but can't help himself. And so he's angry. and disappointed.
He half-heartedly includes all the usual "you don't exist" arguments, while still addressing God directly.
It's some really well done lyricism.
Rundgren and XTC didn't get along during this, but he obviously took their songs and helped them create something great.
I admire these infidels.
I would rate this Godlike.....but.....9.
boontonite wrote:
It serves a purpose, doesn't it?
The song is OK but having the kid on there is too distracting and kind of ruins it, IMO.
It serves a purpose, doesn't it?
Oh come on. The Michaelson-Morley experiments long ago disproved the existence of all imaginary metaphysical beings. Incidentally also disproving a ( false ) logic/science tenet that one cannot prove "something does not exist". Fascinating stuff, but dry if you are expecting sensationalism.
rusportus wrote:
You seem tense,
Dear Faithful,
Your blind and ignorant faith reveals to you a live creator- all-loving, all-knowing, all-truthful, and never wrong. Meanwhile there is never any escape from the fact that evil exists only in the human mind, that filth that was "created in the likeness" of some supremely intelligent deity that you somehow believe has existed for all time. It was a mistake for your god to place you and a fucking female in the earthly garden. Or was the so-called "god" so powerless to prevent a snake? And so it was- your poisoned minds would think only to burn the garden for the sake of innovation, consumption, and procreation. The land and the animals die slowly as the skies continue to darken. Fuck you, all you idiots, and fuck your idiotic god. You will not be forgiven.
Mac-Donald
Your blind and ignorant faith reveals to you a live creator- all-loving, all-knowing, all-truthful, and never wrong. Meanwhile there is never any escape from the fact that evil exists only in the human mind, that filth that was "created in the likeness" of some supremely intelligent deity that you somehow believe has existed for all time. It was a mistake for your god to place you and a fucking female in the earthly garden. Or was the so-called "god" so powerless to prevent a snake? And so it was- your poisoned minds would think only to burn the garden for the sake of innovation, consumption, and procreation. The land and the animals die slowly as the skies continue to darken. Fuck you, all you idiots, and fuck your idiotic god. You will not be forgiven.
Mac-Donald
You seem tense,
Skylarking is one of those albums I always want to listen to all the way through.
Great production by Todd Rundgren.
Great production by Todd Rundgren.
I couldn't agree with the lyrics of this song any more than what they state. Perfect.
The song is OK but having the kid on there is too distracting and kind of ruins it, IMO.
I thought the song was about me?
God reads it, and reads it well.
Dear God, Does post-carboxwall do work?
My next job will be 9 to 5 to the utmost
I'm in heaven with some packaged good.
It's understood, I'm at swisspost neighborhood.
LizK wrote:
Where does ut say that he's a liberal.. For all the aimless testosterone,I think he's more conservative
Makes me laugh that some folks in the US of A talk about being a 'liberal' as if it's some kind of affliction and not just an opinion. Hell we even have a Liberal Party up here in Canadia...and notice the big 'L'.
Where does ut say that he's a liberal.. For all the aimless testosterone,I think he's more conservative
Makes me laugh that some folks in the US of A talk about being a 'liberal' as if it's some kind of affliction and not just an opinion. Hell we even have a Liberal Party up here in Canadia...and notice the big 'L'.
One of the best B Sides ever ( Grass was the A Side ) which ended up on the CD version of Skylarking thanks in part to US college radio playing the crap out of it. This band put out some incredible music over their lifespan. Their high point in my mind being English Settlement featuring two songs that would give Dear God a run for its money and ability to polemicize - Knuckle Down and Melt The Guns.
If he only was able to express his opinion more clearly :-)
Kaw wrote:
Yeah, we need that kind of mac-donalds philosophy. It's simple, it's cheep and good to the majority of simple minded 'look I'm a real liberal and everyone who thinks diverend should be exiled' people.
Where does ut say that he's a liberal.. For all the aimless testosterone,I think he's more conservative
Yeah, we need that kind of mac-donalds philosophy. It's simple, it's cheep and good to the majority of simple minded 'look I'm a real liberal and everyone who thinks diverend should be exiled' people.
Where does ut say that he's a liberal.. For all the aimless testosterone,I think he's more conservative
Amen.
stalfnzo wrote:
This song speaks the truth. We created god, not the other way around. Look at all the suffering in the world caused by organized religion, a man-made monstrosity.
tkosh wrote:
Y'know, I always felt that, as a mid-westerner from Michigan, we had a pretty neutral accent, and it was really only in New England, the South, and a few other places that really had an accent. I didn't immediately notice any difference when I moved to California, for example. It was only when I returned home years later that I realized we actually have a distinct, if subtle accent. Mostly in the 'r's.
We mid-west Americans don't have an accent. The rest of the world does. We talk normal. Ha!
Y'know, I always felt that, as a mid-westerner from Michigan, we had a pretty neutral accent, and it was really only in New England, the South, and a few other places that really had an accent. I didn't immediately notice any difference when I moved to California, for example. It was only when I returned home years later that I realized we actually have a distinct, if subtle accent. Mostly in the 'r's.
This will seem really stupid to most...
I don't listen to lyrics. But I like this piece.
I don't listen to lyrics. But I like this piece.
vesta0424 wrote:
What, exactly, is ' mac-donalds philosophy'?
Being simple myself, i think it means liberals like fast food. Not sure about the "exiled" though.. does that mean no McDonalds for conservatives? God works in mysterious ways.
What, exactly, is ' mac-donalds philosophy'?
Being simple myself, i think it means liberals like fast food. Not sure about the "exiled" though.. does that mean no McDonalds for conservatives? God works in mysterious ways.
Kaw wrote:
Yeah, we need that kind of mac-donalds philosophy. It's simple, it's cheep and good to the majority of simple minded 'look I'm a real liberal and everyone who thinks diverend should be exiled' people.
What, exactly, is ' mac-donalds philosophy'?
stalfnzo wrote:
Yeah, we need that kind of mac-donalds philosophy. It's simple, it's cheep and good to the majority of simple minded 'look I'm a real liberal and everyone who thinks diverend should be exiled' people.
This song speaks the truth. We created god, not the other way around. Look at all the suffering in the world caused by organized religion, a man-made monstrosity.
Yeah, we need that kind of mac-donalds philosophy. It's simple, it's cheep and good to the majority of simple minded 'look I'm a real liberal and everyone who thinks diverend should be exiled' people.
The ONLY reason NOT to like this song would be for religious reasons.Its as good as a song gets.
Some of Todd Rundgren's best production work
This song speaks the truth. We created god, not the other way around. Look at all the suffering in the world caused by organized religion, a man-made monstrosity.
apd wrote:
Can't believe I just noticed this but - does the kid have an American accent? Which would be odd, for a quintessentially English band...
The part was sung by a friend of producer Todd Rundgren. I don't know for sure, but he's American, and the album was recorded in the U.S., so most likely she's American. Lots of other artists "sound American" too, for what it's worth, such as Abba (at least they don't have Swedish accents on the songs), Neil Young, etc. westslope wrote:
Must disagree. People fight over resources. Always.
True enough. Religion is usually a cover and legitimation and the 'official' reason for fighting, as Lemmoth wrote, but in the end it all comes down to economics. It always does.
Must disagree. People fight over resources. Always.
True enough. Religion is usually a cover and legitimation and the 'official' reason for fighting, as Lemmoth wrote, but in the end it all comes down to economics. It always does.
lemmoth wrote:
Must disagree. People fight over resources. Always.
.....
Religious differences - as assinine and foolish as many of them are - are the (at least stated) reason for most of the wars we humans have waged.
Religious differences - as assinine and foolish as many of them are - are the (at least stated) reason for most of the wars we humans have waged.
Must disagree. People fight over resources. Always.
This makes me sad.
whoa - I haven't heard this in YEARS!! (decades?)
enjoying it though very much!
enjoying it though very much!
apd wrote:
Can't believe I just noticed this but - does the kid have an American accent? Which would be odd, for a quintessentially English band...
We mid-west Americans don't have an accent. The rest of the world does. We talk normal. Ha! Can't believe I just noticed this but - does the kid have an American accent? Which would be odd, for a quintessentially English band...
What's the beef in previous comments with a song about personal struggle with belief and faith? I'm an atheist and I think this is a great song - lyrically and musically.
Very disappointing.
Gajdzin wrote:
You are joking of course, right?
Horrible. And the girl sings out of tune. She's not the first one who can't sing, but where is the producer and recording engineer? Shame on them for allowing something like that to leave their mixing desk.
You are joking of course, right?
Ahnyer_Keester wrote:
The crux for me is the same one Lennon addressed:
And all the people that you made in your image
See them fighting in the street
'Cause they can't make opinions meet about God
Religious differences - as assinine and foolish as many of them are - are the (at least stated) reason for most of the wars we humans have waged.
Andy believes that God does not exist and he seems pretty angry at Him for that.
I have always thought this was a very powerful song but it relies on objections to theism that have been adequately and repeatedly answered. Still, it is a testimony to the power of a well written song.
I have always thought this was a very powerful song but it relies on objections to theism that have been adequately and repeatedly answered. Still, it is a testimony to the power of a well written song.
The crux for me is the same one Lennon addressed:
And all the people that you made in your image
See them fighting in the street
'Cause they can't make opinions meet about God
Religious differences - as assinine and foolish as many of them are - are the (at least stated) reason for most of the wars we humans have waged.
jukes1 wrote:
Love the sentiment and the song.
Like the sentiment, hate the song.
Love the sentiment and the song.
Andy believes that God does not exist and he seems pretty angry at Him for that.
I have always thought this was a very powerful song but it relies on objections to theism that have been adequately and repeatedly answered. Still, it is a testimony to the power of a well written song.
I have always thought this was a very powerful song but it relies on objections to theism that have been adequately and repeatedly answered. Still, it is a testimony to the power of a well written song.
Masterpiece
I felt it apropos that I gave it a "godlike" rating of 10. My rating is more for the meaning rather than a musical critique.
Not XTC's best. a little heavy and plodding.
Like the sentiment, hate the song.
Horrible. And the girl sings out of tune. She's not the first one who can't sing, but where is the producer and recording engineer? Shame on them for allowing something like that to leave their mixing desk.
pegteger wrote:
"XTC ruined it"? They wrote it (well, founding member Andy Partridge did). Is there some other version somewhere?
Love this song, BUT XTC ruined it completely. It now sounds like a terrible karaoke recording of someone who cannot carry any tune.
"XTC ruined it"? They wrote it (well, founding member Andy Partridge did). Is there some other version somewhere?
Love this song, BUT XTC ruined it completely. It now sounds like a terrible karaoke recording of someone who cannot carry any tune.
Wish I had written this amazing song!
Grammarcop wrote:
I'm right there with ya.
Not only do I love this song, it captures my feelings toward religion exactly.
I'm right there with ya.
kaybee wrote:
The OWSers are rioting: San Francisco, Oakland, Denver, Portland, Chicago, Vancouver, et al If you think rioting and destruction qualify as 'peaceably demonstrating' your judgment is terminally and irremediably defective.
Oh, Puhlease!!!! The OWSers are getting tear gassed and beaten up for peaceably demonstrating! And they aren't even carrying guns like some of the tea partiers!
The OWSers are rioting: San Francisco, Oakland, Denver, Portland, Chicago, Vancouver, et al If you think rioting and destruction qualify as 'peaceably demonstrating' your judgment is terminally and irremediably defective.
kaybee wrote:
Oh, Puhlease!!!! The OWSers are getting tear gassed and beaten up for peaceably demonstrating! And they aren't even carrying guns like some of the tea partiers!
HA!!! Puhlease!!! A word that unmistakably tells the intent and emotion of the writer.
btw, A 10 song, and a great rebutt.
Oh, Puhlease!!!! The OWSers are getting tear gassed and beaten up for peaceably demonstrating! And they aren't even carrying guns like some of the tea partiers!
HA!!! Puhlease!!! A word that unmistakably tells the intent and emotion of the writer.
btw, A 10 song, and a great rebutt.
Not only do I love this song, it captures my feelings toward religion exactly.
Gave this a 10. One of my fav songs of all time. The words say it all — for me.
aelfheld wrote:
Oh, Puhlease!!!! The OWSers are getting tear gassed and beaten up for peaceably demonstrating! And they aren't even carrying guns like some of the tea partiers!
sirdroseph wrote:
Ummm, why?
The Tea Partiers aren't promoting racism, nor making racist statements. Tea Party rallies have been held around the country - they obey all the local ordinances and regulations, and clean up after themselves.
Now the #OWSers on the other hand . . .
Indeed perhaps you should ask the Tea Partiers that. They could use those words more than someone here making a song comment.
Ummm, why?
The Tea Partiers aren't promoting racism, nor making racist statements. Tea Party rallies have been held around the country - they obey all the local ordinances and regulations, and clean up after themselves.
Now the #OWSers on the other hand . . .
Oh, Puhlease!!!! The OWSers are getting tear gassed and beaten up for peaceably demonstrating! And they aren't even carrying guns like some of the tea partiers!
sirdroseph wrote:
Ummm, why?
The Tea Partiers aren't promoting racism, nor making racist statements. Tea Party rallies have been held around the country - they obey all the local ordinances and regulations, and clean up after themselves.
Now the #OWSers on the other hand . . .
Indeed perhaps you should ask the Tea Partiers that. They could use those words more than someone here making a song comment.
Ummm, why?
The Tea Partiers aren't promoting racism, nor making racist statements. Tea Party rallies have been held around the country - they obey all the local ordinances and regulations, and clean up after themselves.
Now the #OWSers on the other hand . . .
Dear God,
Please don't play this again.
Amen
Please don't play this again.
Amen
awesome song
Businessgypsy wrote:
Indeed perhaps you should ask the Tea Partiers that. They could use those words more than someone here making a song comment.
MinMan wrote:
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
I'm a conservative pragmatist. Love the song, always have. Nothing more healthy than questioning authority, real or imagined. Why are you so scared of people trying to find a practical way to live with an out of control Government? Vilifying a group of political activists isn't progressive, nor is stereotyping a large number of people to fit tidily in a mental box. Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Indeed perhaps you should ask the Tea Partiers that. They could use those words more than someone here making a song comment.
A great band. I have never rated anything "GODLIKE".
This one gets it. Got to get God's attention.
Would give it an 8, but can't resist the irony of classifying it as 'Godlike'.
Always wish I had written this amazing tune.
I must say I like Sarah's version MUCH better,
were any animals mistreated during the taping of this ?
I am sure I heard the scream of a .....................?
were any animals mistreated during the taping of this ?
I am sure I heard the scream of a .....................?
To me, this is just another fantastic XTC song........
Sometimes I wonder if The Dukes of Stratosphere follow up was kind of ...........well to take away the attention that song, (probably unintentionally), stirred up.
I don't know if that made any sense, but I personally find most XTC songs to be so creatively written and well crafted.
Sometimes I wonder if The Dukes of Stratosphere follow up was kind of ...........well to take away the attention that song, (probably unintentionally), stirred up.
I don't know if that made any sense, but I personally find most XTC songs to be so creatively written and well crafted.
ick wrote:
Exactly...some say doubt is the essence of faith. This song is another way of asking the question someone else once asked, "God, why have you forsaken me?" But I guess arguing that would be intruding in a family dispute. (1-ADAM 12, see a man...)
To me, this song is about a person's own struggle with faith. He seems to be asking a very common question,"If God is so powerful, if he exists, why do such horrible things happen to us here on Earth?" I get it....
Exactly...some say doubt is the essence of faith. This song is another way of asking the question someone else once asked, "God, why have you forsaken me?" But I guess arguing that would be intruding in a family dispute. (1-ADAM 12, see a man...)
Businessgypsy wrote:
Answer me two questions:
1. when did you first come to the realization that the "government was 'out of control'?"
2. are you ready to dismantle the two programs that have effectively ended that centuries long problem in Western Society of how to allow the elderly to live out their lives with dignity and free from economic worry?
MinMan wrote:
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
I'm a conservative pragmatist. Love the song, always have. Nothing more healthy than questioning authority, real or imagined. Why are you so scared of people trying to find a practical way to live with an out of control Government? Vilifying a group of political activists isn't progressive, nor is stereotyping a large number of people to fit tidily in a mental box. Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Answer me two questions:
1. when did you first come to the realization that the "government was 'out of control'?"
2. are you ready to dismantle the two programs that have effectively ended that centuries long problem in Western Society of how to allow the elderly to live out their lives with dignity and free from economic worry?
It lacks, emmmm, music. 
Mikalew wrote:
First, please recall this book from 1966.
https://www.amazon.com/Childrens-Letters-God-Stuart-Hample/dp/0894809997
Then read the following.
Irony:
1 : a pretense of ignorance and of willingness to learn from another assumed in order to make the other's false conceptions conspicuous by adroit questioning -called also Socratic irony
2 a : the use of words to express something other than and especially the opposite of the literal meaning b : a usually humorous or sardonic literary style or form characterized by irony c : an ironic expression or utterance
3 a (1) : incongruity between the actual result of a sequence of events and the normal or expected result
(2) : an event or result marked by such incongruity
b : incongruity between a situation developed in a drama and the accompanying words or actions that is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play -called also dramatic irony, tragic irony
Does anyone see the irony in singing to "Dear God" confessing not to believe in him. Seems rather futile.
First, please recall this book from 1966.
https://www.amazon.com/Childrens-Letters-God-Stuart-Hample/dp/0894809997
Then read the following.
Irony:
1 : a pretense of ignorance and of willingness to learn from another assumed in order to make the other's false conceptions conspicuous by adroit questioning -called also Socratic irony
2 a : the use of words to express something other than and especially the opposite of the literal meaning b : a usually humorous or sardonic literary style or form characterized by irony c : an ironic expression or utterance
3 a (1) : incongruity between the actual result of a sequence of events and the normal or expected result
(2) : an event or result marked by such incongruity
b : incongruity between a situation developed in a drama and the accompanying words or actions that is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play -called also dramatic irony, tragic irony
BdylanT303 wrote:
Laz (May 26,'06-14:18) did in fact quote from Richard Bach's, Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah
The irony behind Tomnam's (Aug 07,'06) original criticism is even richer knowing he identifies as a "Creative Director", and you as a "Publisher's Assistant" who enjoys philosophy and literature.
Perhaps you are familiar with a book by Bach called, Jonathan Livingston Seagull ? Illusions was Bach's follow up book to JLS.
Ease up on the mushrooms dude and enroll in a writing class at your local community college ! Classic..
Laz (May 26,'06-14:18) did in fact quote from Richard Bach's, Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah
The irony behind Tomnam's (Aug 07,'06) original criticism is even richer knowing he identifies as a "Creative Director", and you as a "Publisher's Assistant" who enjoys philosophy and literature.
Perhaps you are familiar with a book by Bach called, Jonathan Livingston Seagull ? Illusions was Bach's follow up book to JLS.
Shimmer wrote:
What I've read is that the prolific Andy Partridge submitted a lot of demos to Todd for consideration for the album. Todd chose which songs, the order and came up with the theme for "Skylarking" (the passage of time). Andy wasn't happy with the control that Todd is known for asserting as a producer so the whole process of putting the album together was fraught with tension, mostly between Andy and Todd.
When recording was completed they still had too many songs for an LP. Todd thought "Dear God" was the strongest track and Andy disagreed and didn't even want it included. He may have been worried about the controversial nature of the song.
Andy won out (initially, anyway) and "Dear God" was not included on the original issue of "Skylarking"."Dear God" was released as some sort of a single or EP and did very well, so on later pressings "Mermaid Smiles" was removed and "Dear God" added.
Mikalew wrote:
I agree, but the funny thing is that it was originally left off of Skylarking. I've always wondered why the band didn't immediately recognize how good the song was. Does anyone know the story?
One of Todd Rundgren's best productions and probably the best song from the Skylarking album.
I agree, but the funny thing is that it was originally left off of Skylarking. I've always wondered why the band didn't immediately recognize how good the song was. Does anyone know the story?
What I've read is that the prolific Andy Partridge submitted a lot of demos to Todd for consideration for the album. Todd chose which songs, the order and came up with the theme for "Skylarking" (the passage of time). Andy wasn't happy with the control that Todd is known for asserting as a producer so the whole process of putting the album together was fraught with tension, mostly between Andy and Todd.
When recording was completed they still had too many songs for an LP. Todd thought "Dear God" was the strongest track and Andy disagreed and didn't even want it included. He may have been worried about the controversial nature of the song.
Andy won out (initially, anyway) and "Dear God" was not included on the original issue of "Skylarking"."Dear God" was released as some sort of a single or EP and did very well, so on later pressings "Mermaid Smiles" was removed and "Dear God" added.
Well said.
Too many people make their opinions based on the media they watch or the politicians they follow. Most lack the wit to look at things objectively.
Businessgypsy wrote:
Too many people make their opinions based on the media they watch or the politicians they follow. Most lack the wit to look at things objectively.
Businessgypsy wrote:
MinMan wrote:
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
I'm a conservative pragmatist. Love the song, always have. Nothing more healthy than questioning authority, real or imagined. Why are you so scared of people trying to find a practical way to live with an out of control Government? Vilifying a group of political activists isn't progressive, nor is stereotyping a large number of people to fit tidily in a mental box. Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Businessgypsy wrote:
What's all that got to do with teabagging - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea_bag_%28sexual_act%29, in fact, what's this song got to do with teabagging?
MinMan wrote:
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
I'm a conservative pragmatist. Love the song, always have. Nothing more healthy than questioning authority, real or imagined. Why are you so scared of people trying to find a practical way to live with an out of control Government? Vilifying a group of political activists isn't progressive, nor is stereotyping a large number of people to fit tidily in a mental box. Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
What's all that got to do with teabagging - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea_bag_%28sexual_act%29, in fact, what's this song got to do with teabagging?
MinMan wrote:
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
I'm a conservative pragmatist. Love the song, always have. Nothing more healthy than questioning authority, real or imagined. Why are you so scared of people trying to find a practical way to live with an out of control Government? Vilifying a group of political activists isn't progressive, nor is stereotyping a large number of people to fit tidily in a mental box. Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
We all have to live in this country, and realize that it will take a compromising consensus to do so effectively. That starts with not telling you what to do, rather letting everyone make their own choices to rise or fall as they will. The reason for such a large pragmatic small Government moment has everything to do with personal responsibility over Government control. Racist and ignorant individuals are out there with stupid signs in every movement from Code Pink to John Birch and in between. Why not engage in discussion and solution instead of categorization and rejection? This is not a sporting event, everybody can win.
bitbanger wrote:
Not at all. Oh ye of little faith. In Christianity it is acceptable, obligatory even, to address the deity with questions like the ones presented in this song. You are just plain wrong there.
hubris
Not at all. Oh ye of little faith. In Christianity it is acceptable, obligatory even, to address the deity with questions like the ones presented in this song. You are just plain wrong there.
bump it to ten.
MinMan wrote:
Its funny to me how we (the tea baggers that is) are the ones always being accused of being hateful. Introspection dude... try it sometime.
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
Its funny to me how we (the tea baggers that is) are the ones always being accused of being hateful. Introspection dude... try it sometime.
hubris
Mikalew wrote:
I agree, but the funny thing is that it was originally left off of Skylarking. I've always wondered why the band didn't immediately recognize how good the song was. Does anyone know the story?
One of Todd Rundgren's best productions and probably the best song from the Skylarking album.
I agree, but the funny thing is that it was originally left off of Skylarking. I've always wondered why the band didn't immediately recognize how good the song was. Does anyone know the story?
Rather Contraversial for a pop song!
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.
Maybe someone will ask a T.E.A. baggers for an opinion on this tune - should be good for a segment on The Daily Show.