“This Land Is Your Land,” penned by Woody Guthrie, stands as one of America’s most iconic folk songs. Often considered an alternative national anthem, its simple yet powerful lyrics resonate with themes of belonging, social justice, and the promise of America for all. Initially written as a protest song, it has evolved into a beloved anthem, sung in schools and public gatherings across the nation.
The Complete “This Land Is Your Land” Lyrics
Here are the complete lyrics to Woody Guthrie’s timeless song:
This land is your land, this land is my land
From California to the New York island,
From the redwood forest to the Gulf Stream waters;
This land was made for you and me.
As I was walking that ribbon of highway
I saw above me that endless skyway;
I saw below me that golden valley;
This land was made for you and me.
I've roamed and rambled and I followed my footsteps
To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts;
And all around me a voice was sounding;
This land was made for you and me.
When the sun came shining, and I was strolling,
And the wheat fields waving and the dust clouds rolling,
As the fog was lifting a voice was chanting:
This land was made for you and me.
As I went walking I saw a sign there,
And on the sign it said "No Trespassing."
But on the other side it didn't say nothing.
That side was made for you and me.
In the shadow of the steeple I saw my people,
By the relief office I seen my people;
As they stood there hungry, I stood there asking
Is this land made for you and me?
Nobody living can ever stop me,
As I go walking that freedom highway;
Nobody living can ever make me turn back
This land was made for you and me.This enduring song, with its repetitive and easily memorable chorus, paints a vivid picture of the American landscape, from the redwood forests of California to the New York island, and the vast heartland in between.
The Meaning and History Behind the Song
While often celebrated for its patriotic verses, “This Land Is Your Land” was initially conceived as a critical response to “God Bless America.” Woody Guthrie felt that “God Bless America” did not acknowledge the struggles and inequalities faced by many Americans during the Great Depression. His song, originally titled “God Blessed America for Me,” was intended to be a more realistic and inclusive portrayal of the nation.
The often-omitted verses, including the one mentioning the “No Trespassing” sign and the lines about people standing hungry by the relief office, highlight Guthrie’s socialist leanings and his concern for the less fortunate. These verses add a layer of social commentary, questioning whether the promise of America truly extends to everyone. By including these verses, the song becomes a powerful statement about economic inequality and the need for social justice.
Despite its protest origins, “This Land Is Your Land” has been widely embraced across the political spectrum. Its message of unity and shared ownership of the land resonates deeply with many, and its simple melody makes it easy to sing and share. It has been performed and recorded by countless artists, solidifying its place in American musical history and ensuring that the “This Land Is Your Land Song Lyrics” continue to inspire generations.
In conclusion, “This Land Is Your Land” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of American history. Understanding the “this land is your land song lyrics” and the context in which they were written provides a deeper appreciation for its enduring message of both patriotism and social consciousness. It remains a vital song for reflecting on the ideals of America and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice for all.
