Bruce Springsteen’s 2002 album The Rising was recorded in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The songs on the album speak to the experiences of those affected by the attacks, but they also carry universal messages of hope and resilience.

This is a characteristic of Springsteen’s work, and “You’re Missing,” this week’s Sharp Notes Monday selection, provides a prime example. The lyrics speak to the type of sudden and unexpected losses of those whose loved ones perished in the attacks:

Pictures on the nightstand, TV’s on in the den
Your house is waiting, your house is waiting
For you to walk in, for you to walk in
But you’re missing, you’re missing

But those words could just as easily resonate for someone in a broken relation. Herein lies a part of Springsteen’s genius. How else can one explain the long and widespread popularity of a man who writes songs about New Jersey?

As part of our “Sharp Notes, Sharp Thoughts” music and social media project, we share a song every Monday to start your week.

View previous Sharp Notes Monday selections.

Visit our “Sharp Notes, Sharp Thoughts” music and social media page to learn more about the project and view videos of our presentations.

Categories: Jandoli Institute, Music and Social Justice, Sharp Notes Monday, Sharp Notes Sharp Thoughts

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