The meaning of England by The National

The National's song "England" is a poignant reflection on the complexities of national identity and the weight of history. The song's lyrics are a stream-of-consciousness meditation on the country's tumultuous past, from the Wars of the Roses to the Falklands War.

Matt Berninger's distinctive baritone delivers the words with a sense of weariness, as if shouldering the burden of England's collective guilt. He sings of the "old men" who fought and died in wars past, their sacrifices now mere abstraction. The chorus, a repeated refrain of "I am an Englishman," becomes a hollow declaration, undercut by the realization that national identity is often tied to regret and shame.

The song also touches on the theme of colonialism, with Berninger referencing the "Empire's last hurrah" and the " ghosts of empire's fall." These lines hint at the lingering consequences of England's imperial endeavors, which continue to shape the country's self-image today. By acknowledging these darker aspects of its history, The National's song serves as a reminder that national pride must be tempered by an awareness of the harm inflicted upon others.

Throughout "England," Berninger's lyrics are characterized by their literary density and emotional nuance. His words conjure images of crumbling stately homes, forgotten battlefields, and the quiet desperation of everyday lives. The National's music, with its characteristic blend of post-punk angst and chamber pop elegance, provides a haunting backdrop for these narratives.

Ultimately, "England" is a song about the complexities of national identity – the ways in which it can be both source of pride and burden of responsibility. By exploring the country's troubled past, The National's lyrics offer a nuanced portrait of England, one that acknowledges its flaws as well as its beauty.