The Meaning Behind The Song: Sisters, O Sisters by Yoko Ono
When it comes to powerful feminist anthems, “Sisters, O Sisters” by Yoko Ono stands tall. Released in 1972 on the album Some Time In New York City, this song became a rallying cry for women during a time when the feminist revolution was in full swing.
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sisters, O Sisters | Yoko Ono | Yoko Ono, John Lennon, Elephant’s Memory | Some Time In New York City | June 12, 1972 | Rock | – |
With lyrics that express a sense of loss and despair, Yoko Ono reflects on the state of the world in the opening lines of the song:
“We lost our green land
We lost our clean air
We lost our true wisdom
And we live in despair”
These lines highlight the environmental degradation and social injustice that plagued society at the time. In the chorus, Yoko Ono emphasizes the need for wisdom:
“Wisdom, oh wisdom, that’s what we ask for
That’s what we live for now”
Here, she calls upon women to seek wisdom and reclaim their power, suggesting that wisdom is the key to finding solutions and creating change.
The second verse of the song shifts the focus to the concept of freedom:
“Oh sisters, oh sisters, let’s wake up right on
It’s never too late to shout from our hearts
Oh freedom, oh freedom that’s what we fight for
And yes my dear sisters, we must learn to fight”
Yoko Ono urges women to fight for their freedom, emphasizing the importance of raising their voices and standing up for what they believe in. The chorus echoes the call for freedom:
“Oh freedom, oh freedom, that’s what we ask for
That’s what we live for now”
These lines serve as a reminder that freedom should not be taken for granted and that it requires continuous effort and determination.
The final verse of the song is a call to action:
“Oh sisters, oh sisters, let’s give up no more
It’s never too late to build a new world
Oh new world, oh new world
That’s what we live for
And yes, my dear sisters, we must learn to live”
Yoko Ono urges women to persevere and never give up on their pursuit of a better world. She emphasizes the need to build a new world and encourages women to embrace life fully. The repetition in the chorus reinforces this message:
“New world, oh new world, that’s what we live for
That’s what we all must all learn to build”
“New world, oh new world, that’s what we live for
That’s what we must now learn to build”
These powerful lyrics resonate deeply with women across generations and continue to inspire feminist movements today.
When I first listened to “Sisters, O Sisters”, I was struck by its raw and passionate energy. As a woman, I felt a strong connection to the lyrics, as they encapsulated the frustrations and hopes that many of us experience. This song served as a reminder that we have the power to effect change and fight for our rights.
Yoko Ono’s bold and unapologetic approach to feminism is evident in both her manifesto, The Feminization of Society, and her music. She challenges societal norms and encourages women to break free from the shackles of a patriarchal system. Her belief in the importance of unity and sisterhood shines through in “Sisters, O Sisters”.
While this song received mixed reviews from music critics, its impact cannot be denied. It has become an anthem for women’s empowerment, resonating with individuals who strive for a world where equality and justice prevail. The fact that Yoko Ono continues to perform and collaborate on this song speaks volumes about its enduring relevance.
In 2007, the electroclash band Le Tigre covered “Sisters, O Sisters” with Yoko Ono for Ono’s album, Yes, I’m a Witch. This collaboration showcased the song’s ability to transcend time and connect with a new generation of feminists.
As Yoko Ono said, “We are a very important energy that society can use.” “Sisters, O Sisters” is a testament to the power of women’s voices and the impact we can have when we come together. Let us remember the message behind this powerful anthem and continue to strive for a better world.
