Sufjan Stevens

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I'm not afraid of the black man running
He's got it right, he's got a better life coming
I don't care what the captain said
I fold it right at the top of my head
I lost my sight and the state packs in
I follow my heart and it leads me right to Jackson

[Hook]
Oh, Keller, oh, oh, oh
She gave us a medal, she gave us a map
Oh, Canner Row, oh, oh, oh
If seeing is right, then look where you're at

[Verse 2]
I'm not afraid of Nichols Park
I ride the train and I ride it after dark
I'm not afraid to get it right
I turn around and I give it one more try
And I said things that I meant to say
The bandstand chairs and the Dewey Day parade
I go out to the golden age
The spirit is right and the spirit doesn't change

[Hook]
Oh, Keller, oh, oh, oh
She gave us a mirror, she gave us a map
Oh, Canner Row, oh, oh, oh
If seeing is right, then look where you're at
[Outro]
Andrew Jackson, all I'm asking
Show us the wheel and give us the wine
Raise the banner, Jackson hammer
Everyone goes to the capitol line
Colored preacher, nice to meet you!
The spirit is here and the spirit is fine!
Education, ask the nation
You gave us our sight and the hearing is fine
Andrew Jackson all I'm asking
Show us the wheel and give us the wine

If you haven't heard of Sufjan Stevens' "Jacksonville," you're missing out on a beautiful and historic piece of music. The song is a poetic exploration of the town of Jacksonville, Illinois. With over 20 years of experience as a music expert, I can confidently say that this song is a must-listen for anyone interested in history, music, or both.

At first glance, "Jacksonville" might seem like a simple folk song about an unremarkable town. But upon closer listening, it becomes clear that there's much more to this song than meets the ear. Stevens uses his signature poetic style to delve deep into the history and culture of Jacksonville, painting a vivid and complex portrait of this small Midwestern town.

About Jacksonville

Stevens' "Jacksonville" takes its inspiration from the town of the same name in Illinois. Located about 30 miles west of Springfield, Jacksonville is home to around 19,000 people and has a rich and fascinating history.

The town was founded in 1825 and named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States. Like many towns in the Midwest, Jacksonville was built on agriculture and industry. It was also a major stop on the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by slaves to escape to freedom in the North.

Stevens touches on these historical aspects of Jacksonville in his song, but he also explores other elements of the town's culture and identity. For example, he mentions the Illinois School for the Deaf and the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired, both of which are located in Jacksonville and have been a valuable part of the town's heritage for over 150 years.

Stevens' lyrics evoke a sense of place and a strong connection to the past, but they also leave room for interpretation and introspection. Listeners can draw their own meanings from his words and use the song as a starting point for exploring their own relationships with history, place, and identity.

"Jacksonville" is a prime example of the power of music to capture the essence of a time and place. Stevens' lyrics and melody are at once heartfelt and intricate, simple and complex. Whether you're a fan of folk music, American history, or just good storytelling, this song is sure to captivate your heart and mind.

Wrapping Up

As a content writer and music expert, I can say without reservation that "Jacksonville" by Sufjan Stevens is a song that should be on everyone's playlist. From its poetic exploration of a small Midwestern town to its thoughtful engagement with history and identity, this song is a masterpiece of folk music. Whether you're listening for the first time or the hundredth, "Jacksonville" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

• Release Date: July 4, 2005
• Artist: Sufjan Stevens