The Clements Bookworm: “O Say Can You Hear?, A Cultural Biography of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner'” an Author Conversation with Mark Clague

Mark Clague brilliantly weaves together the stories of the song and the nation it represents in his newest book In O Say Can You Hear?, A Cultural Biography of “The Star-Spangled Banner”. Examining the origins of both text and music, alternate lyrics and translations, and the song’s use in sports, at times of war, and for political protest, he argues that the anthem’s meaning reflects—and is reflected by—the nation’s quest to become a more perfect union. From victory song to hymn of sacrifice and vehicle for protest, the story of Key’s song is the story of America itself.

Mark is Associate Dean For Collaborations And Partnerships; Director, U-M Gershwin Initiative; Co-Editor-In-Chief, Musa; Professor Of Musicology And Entrepreneurship & Leadership. In his research he has examined the Clements Library’s copy of a rare first edition of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

This episode of the Clements Bookworm is generously sponsored by the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan.

Register for this event at myumi.ch/gjgzR