About the song
Johnny Cash, a name synonymous with country music, often delved into themes of hardship, redemption, and American identity. One of his most iconic and poignant songs, “Ragged Old Flag,” is a testament to his ability to capture the spirit of the nation, its people, and their unwavering loyalty.
Released in 1974, “Ragged Old Flag” is a heartfelt tribute to the American flag, a symbol of freedom, unity, and perseverance. The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics paint a vivid picture of the flag’s journey through history, weathering storms, witnessing victories, and enduring the test of time. Cash’s gravelly vocals, infused with emotion and respect, add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The song begins with a poignant image of the flag hanging limply, “torn and tattered,” a reflection of the nation’s struggles and challenges. Yet, despite its worn condition, the flag remains a source of inspiration and hope. Cash sings of the flag’s presence at pivotal moments in American history, from the Civil War to World War II, symbolizing the sacrifices made by countless individuals to defend the nation’s ideals.
Throughout the song, Cash employs vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the flag’s enduring spirit. He compares it to a “battered old soldier,” a symbol of resilience and courage. The flag is also described as a “beacon of hope,” guiding the nation through times of darkness and uncertainty. Cash’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and patriotism, reminding listeners of the nation’s rich history and the sacrifices made by generations past.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Cash repeating the refrain, “Ragged old flag, still waving.” This simple yet powerful statement conveys the unwavering spirit of the American people, their determination to overcome adversity, and their enduring love for their country. The image of the flag still waving, despite its tattered state, serves as a metaphor for the nation’s resilience and its ability to endure.
“Ragged Old Flag” is a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. It is a testament to Johnny Cash’s ability to connect with the hearts and minds of listeners, and a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of the American people. The song’s message of hope, perseverance, and patriotism remains relevant today, serving as a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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Lyrics
I walked through a county courthouse square
On a park bench, an old man was sittin’ there.
I said, “Your old court house is kinda run down,
He said, “Naw, it’ll do for our little town”.
I said, “Your old flag pole is leaned a little bit,
And that’s a ragged old flag you got hangin’ on it”.
He said, “Have a seat”, and I sat down,
“Is this the first time you’ve been to our little town”
I said, “I think it is”
He said “I don’t like to brag, but we’re kinda proud of that ragged old flag”You see, we got a little hole in that flag there
When Washington took it across the Delaware.
And It got powder burned the night Francis Scott Key sat watching it
Writing “Say Can You See”
It got a bad rip in New Orleans, with Packingham & Jackson
Tugging at it’s seams.
And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag,
But she waved on though.
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville,
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee and Beauregard and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on that ragged old flagOn Flanders Field in World War I
She got a big hole from a Bertha Gun
She turned blood red in World War II
She hung limp, and low, a time or two
She was in Korea, Vietnam, she went where she was sent
By her Uncle Sam
She waved from our ships upon the briny foam
And now they’ve about quit wavin’ back here at home
In her own good land here She’s been abused
She’s been burned, dishonored, denied an’ refused
And the government for which she stands
Has scandalized throughout out the land
And she’s getting thread bare, and she’s wearin’ thin
But she’s in good shape, for the shape she’s in
Cause she’s been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot moreSo we raise her up every morning
And we take her down every night,
We don’t let her touch the ground,
And we fold her up right.
On a second thought
I do like to brag
‘Cause I’m mighty proud of that ragged old flag