Shipbuilding
John Peel, Robert Wyatt
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Is it worth it? A new winter coat and shoes for the wife And a bicycle on the boy's birthday. It's just a rumor that was spread around town By the women and children, soon we'll be shipbuilding Well I ask you The boy said 'Dad, they're going to take me to task But I'll be home by Christmas. It's just a rumor that was spread around town Somebody said that someone got filled in For saying that people get killed in The results of their shipbuilding. With all the will in the world Diving for dear life When we could be diving for pearls. It's just a rumor that was spread around town A telegram for a picture postcard Within weeks they'll be reopening the shipyard And notifying the next of kin Once again. It's all we're skilled in We will be shipbuilding. With all the will in the world Diving for dear life When we could be diving for pearls.
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: ELVIS COSTELLO, CLIVE WILLIAM LANGER
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
13 facts about this song
Song Origin"Shipbuilding" is a song written by Elvis Costoello and Clive Langer. Originally, it was written during the Falklands War in 1982.
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First RecordingThis song was first recorded by British singer Robert Wyatt. His version was released as a single in August 1982 and reached number 35 in the UK Singles Chart.
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Elvis Costello's VersionElvis Costoello's own version of "Shipbuilding" was then included in his 1983 album 'Punch the Clock'.
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Theme and Meaning"Shipbuilding" is a political song, and it explores the contradictions of war. It's specifically about the way that the Falklands War created jobs in British shipyards while simultaneously causing death and destruction.
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Musical StyleCostello’s lyrical imagery and Wyatt’s delicate alto voice were combined to create a haunting result. The song also features a powerful trumpet solo by leading jazz musician Chet Baker.
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Recognition and HonorsThe song was recognized by NME as the "Single of the Year" in 1982.
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Cover Versions"Shipbuilding" has been covered by multiple artists, including The Beautiful South, Tasmin Archer, and Suede.
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Considered a ClassicToday, "Shipbuilding" is considered a classic and has been subject to much critical acclaim.
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Cultural ImpactThe song was referenced in the novel 'High Fidelity' by Nick Hornby, which reflects on its poignant message and emotional impact.
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Film Appearance"Shipbuilding" appeared in the 2013 film, 'Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa', which stars British comedian Steve Coogan.
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The Original IdeaClive Langer had originally intended the tune of "Shipbuilding" for Robert Wyatt but felt it wasn't the right fit for him. After hearing the beginnings of the song, Costello wrote the lyrics overnight.
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Album PositionWyatt's version of "Shipbuilding" was later included in his compilation albums "Nothing Can Stop Us" (1982) and "His Greatest Misses" (2004).
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Broader ThemesBeyond war, the song also comments on class and the division of wealth in society.
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Citation
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"Shipbuilding Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 7 Nov. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/32556163/Robert+Wyatt/Shipbuilding>.
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