Selected Songs

Analyzing a Written Argument

The general argument made by Bob Dylan in his work Selected Songs is that we believe that because we have God on our side he will help us with war. He also talks about others who fight in wars just for their own personal gain. More specifically Dylan suggests that if God was on someone’s side in war then he would prevent future wars. He writes, “If God’s on our side he’ll stop the next war.”  Pg. 916. In this passage, Dylan is suggesting that the fact that we are still going to war mean that God isn’t on our side. In conclusion, it is Dylan’s belief that being in war at all is a sign that God doesn’t approve of what we are doing.

Planning Your Own Argument

            In my view, Dylan is right because war isn’t a good thing and God only stands for good things. For example, there have been many wars and battles fought in the name of God but that doesn’t mean he approves of them. One example of this is the holy wars where many people were killed, “in the name of God.” All of the death and destruction was proof that God didn’t favor what they were doing. Therefore, I conclude that we wouldn’t be in war if God was actually on our side.

The Battle of Balaclava: The Charge of the Light Brigade

Analyzing a Written Argument

The general argument made by William Howard Russell in his work The Battle of Balaclava: The Charge of the Light Brigade is that he was very proud of the way that the brigade fought off the Russians that outnumbered them. More specifically Russell suggests that they were heroic and patriotic in their acts. He writes, “We saw them riding through the guns, as I have said; to our delight, we saw them returning, after breaking through a column of Russian infantry.”  Pg. 837. In this passage, Russell is suggesting that those who saw the brigade returning rejoiced because they were able to defeat their enemies. In conclusion, it is Russell’s belief that through war you can make your country proud and accomplish amazing feats.

Planning Your Own Argument

            In my view, Russell is right because it has often been war heroes and generals that have lead large groups of people all throughout time because of their popularity because of the honor they get form great feats in war. For example, in the movie kingdom of heaven Balian earns great respect because of his skills in warfare. Although Russell might object that Balian also got the respect because of his father, I maintain that it was his skills in warfare. Therefore, I conclude that war can gain one great honor and power.