Question One | Sharksavewriters

Question One

The most striking element in Sam Cooke’s version is the balance produced by the emotional melody as the instrumentals supplement the synergy. As you listen to the song, it is impossible not to feel the energy, as his vocals alternate the lyrics, that expresses the extent of the “Mean Old World.” Although Chuck Berry’s version has a unique instrumental expression that best alternates the stanzas, Cooke’s version is more expressive as it weaves both the vocals and instrumentals. Thus, Cooke’s text creates a more relatable pathos.

Question Two

In the three versions, the instruments express the song’s aura in a way that speaks louder than words. Clapton shows the “Mean Old World” using the Stratocaster and the rose fingerboard in ways that are unique to himself, while still letting the other musicians express their emotions using individual instruments. The singers are such that they do not attempt to out-do each other, in vocals or instrumentals.

Besides, in all the versions, they maintain the same voice that further expresses the intensity of the lyrics, while still maintaining a traditional Western environment that compels one to hold a partner and dance slowly to the song.

Question Three

I pack my things to leave, but I never go.

I know I seem confused, could it be that I have seen this before?

I guess it is true that our love is only a secondary emotion.

Could it be that love never existed? But why can I not ignore the feeling?