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November 10, 2005
John Henry Selections
Traditional, "John Henry" (late 19th C) -- American Literature, 1800-1915 (EL 266)
"I'll die with a hammer in my hand" (John Henry, Steel Driving Man).
After reading these lines in the ballad, I noticed how serious it was and how John Henry felt about his job. I read that he was trying to beat the steam hammer and show his boss that he could do the work better and faster. I think this shows how dedicated he was and how important the work was to his living. I liked Steel Driving Man the best because it gives a good sense of what life was like right after the Civil War and with the railroads.
The Prison Crew Versions are shorter with choppier words. This makes it seem easier for a bunch of men to sing and keep them together with doing hard labor. I noticed a lot of words were mispelled, too.
Posted by AshleyHoltzer at November 10, 2005 08:19 AM
Comments
Ashley, I chose the same link in my site. I like how you can read about the different "lives" of John Henry depending on where the story originates.
Posted by: Stacy at November 10, 2005 09:12 AM