The Vietnam Anti-war Movement

The song The Knife by Genesis shows a man who has no idea what to expect when he goes overseas to Vietnam. He later discovers the horrors of the Vietnam War when he develops mental issues after being promised freedom and heroism. The lyrics “We are only wanting freedom” is repeated at the end of the song to further a point that the soldiers were told to go fight for their freedom and patriotism. It also links to the first part of the song, “Tell me my life is about to begin. Tell me that I am a hero. Now, in this ugly world, it is time to destroy all this evil. Now, when I give the word, get ready to fight for your freedom.” Some other lyrics that stand out against Vietnam are, “We must strike at the lies that have spread like disease through our minds,” and Some of you are going to die, martyrs of course to the freedom that I shall provide.”