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The song "Zombie” The Cranberries

1.      Context

The Cranberries' song "Zombie" was written in 1993 by the band's vocalist Dolores O'Riordan. The song's central theme is the response to a bomb attack perpetrated by the IRA (Irish Republican Army) on March 20 of that year in Warrington, England. The attack killed three-year-old Jonathan Ball and 12-year-old Tim Parry, and injured dozens more. This unfortunate event was part of the conflict known as The Troubles, a period of violence in Northern Ireland between unionist (pro-British) and republican (pro-Irish independence) groups that continued from the late 1960s until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.

In the 1990s, Ireland experienced a period of political uncertainty due to attempts to pacify the Northern Ireland conflict. Another social factor was the tension between Catholics and Protestants, and between those who wanted independence for Northern Ireland and those who wished to remain part of the United Kingdom. Faced with this lack of unity, attacks and armed clashes between the two sides took place. The Irish nation was divided and consumed by the violence that had plagued the region for decades.

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Throughout time, humanity has sought to express feelings and emotions through music. Historically, music has become a reflection of the cultural identity of people and a means to express their emotions, thoughts, nonconformity, and revolution. It has also been a way to express rejection of social and political conflicts. The song "Zombie" by The Cranberries, released in 1994, is a clear example of expression and how people have been able to communicate and reflect the pain of a people and why not raise awareness worldwide. This song was written by Dolores O'Riordan, who wanted to capture in its lyrics the response to an attack perpetrated by the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in 1993. The lyrics of this song denounce the violence and consequences caused by the conflict between Ireland and England. The raw and emotional musical style allows Zombie to become an artistic expression that reflects the impact of the conflict on Irish identity.

The artist captures Ireland's struggle to maintain its identity amidst violence in her lyrics and vocal performance. Through expressions like "Another head hangs lowly, child is slowly taken," she conveys the pain of the loss of innocent lives in an endless cycle of war where ordinary people suffer the consequences. Furthermore, it is important to highlight the use and repetition of the word "zombie," which suggests and evokes a society trapped in past grudges, unable to move forward due to historical confrontations, power struggles, and the domination of one nation over another. The song covers different social, cultural, and political aspects. On a cultural level, the song reinforces the idea of ​​a nation that seeks peace and rejects violence as a means of resistance, while also conveying a message of pain and weariness in the face of war.

One of the social issues addressed in the song is inspired by a 1993 bombing in Warrington, England, that killed two children. Therefore, the song is a response to the suffering caused by violence.

Within the song, different themes can be identified.

1. War and political violence: the pain of mothers who lose their children in the conflict and how violence affects innocent people.

2. Endless cycle of violence: "It's the same old thing since 1916" refers to the Easter Rising of 1916, when the Irish began a rebellion against British rule. The use of the word "zombie" symbolizes the automatic, unreasoning mindset of those who perpetuate war.

Similarly, values ​​and traditions can be recognized.

1. Nationalism and Irish Identity

Reflects Ireland's historic struggle for independence, which has been part of its identity for centuries. It critiques how this identity has been used to justify acts of violence.

2. The Grief of Mothers and the Community

The tone of the song is somber and emotional, emphasizing the suffering of mothers who have lost their children in the conflict.

In Ireland, the family is a fundamental pillar of society.

3. Criticism of Fanaticism and Extremism

Denounces extremism on both sides. The repetition of the word "Zombie" reinforces the idea that the combatants have become callous and follow a pattern without question.

Beyond its historical significance for Ireland and its social issues, Zombie has had a great influence on society at large, transcending its original context, reaching different nations, becoming an anthem against war and conflict in different parts of the world. Its powerful message has been used in different social movements fighting oppression and violence. This demonstrates the great universal impact of music as a means of expressing not only romantic feelings but also protest. The song's global success not only helped bring visibility to Ireland's history and internal conflict,  but has also educated generations who did not directly experience the events narrated in the lyrics but who now face situations of inequality.

In conclusion, The Cranberries' Zombie's lyrics not only reflect Ireland's cultural identity through its repudiation and denunciation of the conflict, but it has also influenced society by becoming a symbol of resistance and peace. Its powerful combination of lyrics, music, and historical context has allowed it to transcend time, reaching listeners around the world. Zombie remains proof that music can give voice to the people and transform social consciousness.

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Summary of the ideas shared

The narratives selected by the members were songs that expressed feelings of rejection of the oppression of war and the system, as well as a call for peace and unity. Music has been used as a tool of communication and to give voice to their feelings of protest. The songs "Zombie" by The Cranberries, "Imagine" by John Lennon, "Big Yellow Taxi" by Joni Mitchell, and "Another Brick in the Wall" by Pink Floyd have not only expressed nonconformity in their time through their lyrics but have also influenced future generations up to the present.

The narratives deal with different themes, all of which have in common the ability to generate reflection in their listeners and inspire change in society. Among the social issues addressed is the denunciation of violence and the impact of the conflict on Irish society; it is a direct message that reflects the pain faced by the consequences of the power struggle. On the other hand, through the lyrics of "Imagine," he promotes peace and global unity through the idea of ​​a world without political, religious, or material divisions, acquiring a utopian tone. Environmental awareness is another theme highlighted, emphasizing that uncontrolled urbanization is depleting natural resources. Finally, the song addresses the education sector as a fundamental part of society. The song reflects a repressive education system that coerces students' critical thinking.

The songs

each focus on different issues, but they are all part of a social reality that influences every aspect of life. These songs, despite focusing on a specific culture, have transcended borders and become symbols of rejection of war, a call for peace, a symbol of environmental struggle, and a symbol of youthful rebellion against the traditional education system. These songs clearly demonstrate the marked impact they have on society regarding social and moral values.

In conclusion, each song, from its own perspective, has contributed to raising awareness about social issues and bringing about positive changes in society.

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Hi, Smehykeer

Personally, I hadn't heard the song. I find it interesting because it addresses a very real problem in today's society: people, in their eagerness to build, destroy nature and don't take into consideration that we are all part of the world and that nature is vital to ensuring our very existence. It's a bit ironic that, in the name of "development" caused by overpopulation, we are destroying the very thing that keeps us alive.

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Hello Yulieth

I must admit that the song you selected is one of my favorites, and I listened to it constantly during my school days. Personally, I was always drawn to its message, although I must admit that at that time I didn't fully understand it. However, now, from another perspective and having assumed the role of teacher, I can see the importance of educational transformation and revolution, where we don't limit or build walls around children, but rather provide them with tools to develop as people who are critical of their social context.