O Say Can You Hear: A Cultural Biography of "The Star-Spangled Banner"

Mark Clague’s O Say Can You Hear: A Cultural Biography of “The Star-Spangled Banner” tells the fascinating story of America’s national anthem while examining the anthem’s powerful meaning today. Clague weaves together the stories of The Star-Spangled Banner and America through examination of text and music, alternate lyrics and translations, and the song’s use in athletics, wartime, and for political protest. He argues that the anthem’s meaning reflects—and is reflected by— the nation’s quest to become a more perfect union.  

Each chapter in the book explores a different face of the history of Francis Scott Key’s ballad, covering concepts ranging from why the anthem is sung at sporting events to some of the most famous performances of the anthem, including Jimi Hendrix’ rendition at Woodstock and Whitney Houston’s version at the 1991 Super Bowl. Clague also explores Key’s complicated relationship with slavery and its repercussions today.  

The New York Times describes the NEH Public Scholars book as a “comprehensive study of the national anthem” and included O Say Can You Hear in a roundup of recommended new books.