The song "War" (often known by its famous line "War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing") is a protest song originally written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong and famously performed by Edwin Starr. It was released in 1970 and became a major hit, known for its strong anti-war message
Key Themes and Lyrics
- The song condemns war as destructive and pointless, emphasizing the loss of innocent lives and the grief of mothers who lose their sons in battle.
- It repeatedly asserts that war is "absolutely nothing" good for, describing it as a "heartbreaker" and "friend only to the undertaker."
- The lyrics highlight war as an enemy to all mankind, causing unrest and destruction, especially affecting the younger generation.
- It calls for peace, love, and understanding, questioning whether there is no better way than fighting wars to keep freedom
Notable Lines
- "War, huh, yeah / What is it good for? / Absolutely nothing"
- "War, I despise / 'Cause it means destruction of innocent lives"
- "War means tears to thousands of mother's eyes / When their sons go off to fight and lose their lives"
- "War ain't nothing but a heartbreaker / Friend only to the undertaker"
- "Life is much too short and precious to spend fighting wars these days / War can't give life, it can only take it away"
The song became one of the most iconic protest songs against war, especially during the Vietnam War era, and remains a powerful anthem for peace
