Monday, October 19, 2009

Charged Images: Bob!

This world-renowned picture is of the most significantly charged figure in Jamaica’s history. Bob Marley not only represents his colorful country, but also stands as a representative for those who believe in love and peace ruling the world. One Love is one of his top songs…but it’s meaning does not end there. One Love is known by many to mean that humanity is one big happy family. We’re all “brothers and sisters” despite the many reasons people find to separate us; i.e. ethnicity, social class, religion. This picture also signifies hope for many Jamaican people. Hope that their words, thoughts, and opinions could reach the world in such a manner as Bob’s, though they come from such a poor country. While this picture holds such emotional value to some, others would disprove of it. How can this be? …Well, Bob Marley was also not ashamed of letting the world know that he smoked marijuana. When some people see this picture, they just think of him as another pot-smoking hippy and would probably not let their kids/future kids listen to his music in fear of his “bad” influence. And I’m also sure that some people even hate him….So, you tell me. How do you see Bob?

5 comments:

  1. Jodi,
    As long as Mr. Marley came clean with his past, and showed that even the best of us have faults, failures, and things we are not proud of, but that we can overcome these faults, and become the strength his country is looking for and lead them in a new and better direction, sure, I would want Mr. Marley to have an influence in the youth of our times, knowing we need leaders and not all followers. Pat Kaehler.

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  2. I still remember hearing his music. My wife is the big reggae fan but I still like his music. I would let my kids listen to it. His lyrics can tell great stories and carry a wonderful meaning. At least he was honest. Look at the musicians today and see what they are hiding...

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  4. Jodi, i love that you chose to do your blog on Bob Marley as i am a big fan. Whenever i am feeling down "No woman no cry" gets me out of the gutter in no time, his music is very uplifting and a good reminder to just relax! "Redemption song" is another favorite of mine. As far as the marijuana goes i see no shame in that, and neither does he. As far as the youth is concerned, i would rather have them listen to music that includes marijuana over alcohol any day. Sure neither is the ideal of a great influence but remember we live in a country where you can pick up narcotic medication from a DRIVE-THRU and liver disease in the 12th biggest killer in the U.S. today, an average of 20,000 deaths a year.

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  5. I think this is a great choice for a charged image. Personally I am drawn to Bob's music like others who have commented. His music seems to reach a broad range of people which is admirable.

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