Four-Letter Words Lyrics - Miriam Makeba

Song Facts:

• Album: The soundtrack for the movie "Shirley"


• Genre: Folk/World


• Artist: Miriam Makeba


• Lyricists: Miriam Makeba


• Style: Protest song, poetic

Annotations and Meaning:

The Four-Letter Words by Miriam Makeba from the Shirley soundtrack is a consideration of the kind of paradoxical language and the kind of conduct and cultural convention it fashions. She then uses the repetition and patterned contrasts of another set of four-letter words so as to bring into sharp focus the great difference that lies between the words related to violence and destruction on the one hand, and those related to love and healing on the other.

Literal Interpretation:

The song begins with a series of words with negative connotation- four-letter words like "wars," "kill," "guns," "hate," symbolizing elements of conflict and suffering. The repetition that "are four-letter words" will in fact bring out the hardship through which the chaotic and complex idea of violence is encapsulated but will, however, evoke an affirmation of violence in culture.

Thematic Interpretation:

In the song, Makeba introduced yet another five-lettered four-letter word, thus: "love," "give," "fair," "just," "heal," "help," "hope," "save," and "care." All of those are words of positive action or qualities themselves—one might say, in a vision of another way of caring, being just, and healing rather than aggressive, harming. The chorus "are four-letter words too" appears to restate the point that these—rational, simple enough for spelling but perhaps not for being—good qualities have not been focused on in speech, culture, and, by extension, society.

Underlying Message:

After all, "Four-Letter Words" lies in the heart of being a call to action, pushing listeners toward embracing the power of language over our worldviews and behaviors. The dichotomy between words that hurt and words that heal, one is led to think that the choice of four such letter words as will rule our discourse and actions can, in fact, change the fabric of society fundamentally. The song attempts to plead with a "far better way," meaning that this way of empathy, equity, and care across the communities be found as foundational for societal engagement.

Cultural Significance:

In the context of "Shirley," a film most likely dealing with issues of struggle, identity, and resilience, "Four-Letter Words" will stand as one great and powerful anthem for change. Her life reflects this: Makeba's commitment to justice and the idea that music can indeed be an instrument for society to awaken and take action for its meaningful change.
In other words, Miriam Makeba's song "Four-Letter Words" is a profound reflection over the dichotomy found within language. It reflects humanity's choice to let the cycles of violence continue or for people to take on pathways of love and healing. The well-known artist goes on to use this song for more than just the criticism of the normalization of bad manners but also champions the power of good words and actions in forging a more equitable and compassionate world.