The Meaning Behind The Song: National Brotherhood Week by Tom Lehrer

National Brotherhood Week is a satirical song by Tom Lehrer, released in 1965 as part of his album “That Was The Year That Was.” Lehrer was a comedian, pianist, and mathematician known for his witty and often politically charged songs. This particular song takes a jab at the hypocrisy and superficiality of National Brotherhood Week, an event that took place during the third week of February until the 1980s. The lyrics of the song expose the ironic contradictions and prejudices that exist even during a week dedicated to promoting unity and understanding.

The first verse of the song highlights the racial tensions that persist in society, where white people and black people harbor mutual hatred. Lehrer sings, “Oh, the white folks hate the black folks, and the black folks hate the white folks, to hate all but the right folks is an old established rule.” This line suggests that people are selective in their prejudices, only targeting certain groups while ignoring others. The lyrics go on to mock the idea that during National Brotherhood Week, Lena Horne and Sheriff Clark, representing the black and white communities, would put aside their differences and dance together. Lehrer sarcastically remarks, “It’s fun to eulogize the people you despise, as long you don’t let them in your school.”

The second verse takes aim at class differences, with the poor hating the rich and the rich hating the poor. Lehrer states, “But during National Brotherhood Week, New Yorkers love the Puerto Ricans cause it’s very chic. Step up and shake the hand of someone you can’t stand, you can tolerate him if you try.” Here, Lehrer exposes the superficiality of the event, suggesting that people put on a friendly facade during this designated week but revert to their usual prejudices once it ends.

In the final verse, the song touches on religious divisions and anti-Semitism. Lehrer sings, “Oh, the Protestants hate the Catholics, and the Catholics hate the Protestants, and the Hindus hate the Muslims, and everybody hates the Jews.” This verse highlights the fact that prejudice and hatred can extend beyond race and class, permeating different religious groups as well.

Despite its humorous and satirical tone, National Brotherhood Week delivers a powerful message about the hypocrisy and superficiality often associated with attempts at promoting unity and brotherhood. It highlights the need for genuine understanding and acceptance beyond designated periods or events. Lehrer’s biting lyrics and catchy melody make the song both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Personally, this song has always resonated with me. Growing up in a diverse community, I witnessed the existence of deep-rooted prejudices and divisions, even during times of supposed unity. I remember attending events and witnessing people put on a facade of friendliness while harboring underlying biases. Tom Lehrer’s song captures this phenomenon perfectly, exposing the flaws in our attempts to overcome prejudice and promote brotherhood.

The satirical nature of National Brotherhood Week allows for a reflection on the importance of genuine acceptance and understanding. While the song was written in the 1960s, its message remains relevant today. It serves as a reminder that unity and brotherhood cannot be achieved through superficial gestures but require genuine compassion, empathy, and a willingness to challenge our own biases and prejudices.

In conclusion, Tom Lehrer’s National Brotherhood Week is a witty and thought-provoking song that critiques the hypocrisy and superficiality of designated events aimed at fostering unity and brotherhood. Its lyrics expose the contradictions and prejudices that persist even during periods of supposed harmony. Through its satirical lens, the song calls for genuine understanding and acceptance beyond mere gestures. It remains a timeless critique of the flaws in our society and a reminder of the importance of true unity and brotherhood.