The song begins with the line “Some folks are born made to wave the flag, ooh, they’re red, white, and blue.” This line refers to the privileged few who are born into wealthy families and have access to all the opportunities that money can buy. The next line, “And when the band plays ‘Hail to the Chief,’ oh, they point the cannon at you, Lord,” is a reference to the Vietnam War, where the sons of the wealthy were often exempt from military service while the poor were drafted to fight. The idea that those in power use the working-class to further their own interests is a common theme throughout the song.
The chorus of Fortunate Son is perhaps the most memorable part of the song. The repeated line “It ain’t me, it ain’t me, I ain’t no senator’s son” is a defiant statement that declares the singer’s unwillingness to be part of the corrupt system that benefits the wealthy. The chorus also includes the line “Some folks are born silver spoon in hand, Lord, don’t they help themselves, oh” which highlights the sense of entitlement that comes with being wealthy. The idea that those who are born into privilege often feel entitled to their wealth and do not necessarily earn it is an important message that is still relevant today.
Fortunate Son was written during a time of intense political and social unrest in the United States. The Vietnam War was a controversial conflict that divided the country, and the issue of social inequality was becoming increasingly important. The song was a reflection of the anger and frustration that many people felt at the time.
However, the message of Fortunate Son goes beyond its historical context. The song is a reminder that the gap between the rich and poor still exists today, and that those who are born into privilege still have advantages that others do not. The lyrics encourage us to question authority and to fight against social injustice.
In conclusion, Fortunate Son is a powerful protest song that highlights the social inequalities that existed during the Vietnam War era. The song’s lyrics are still relevant today, as they remind us that the gap between the rich and poor still exists and that those who are born into privilege often have advantages that others do not. The song is a call to action, encouraging us to question authority, fight against social injustice, and work towards a fairer society for all.