The National's "Mr. November" Lyric Change: A Story of Artistic Evolution and Social Progress

Background

The National's 2007 song "Mr. November" has been a fan favorite since its release, but one particular lyric has sparked controversy and debate. The original lyric, "The poor groom's bride is a whore," was seen by some as misogynistic and disrespectful towards women.

Lyric Change

In 2019, the band announced that they would be changing the lyric to "The poor groom's bride is a..." This decision was met with praise from many fans and critics, who saw it as a positive step towards inclusivity and respect.

Matt Berninger, the band's frontman, explained the change in a statement: "... We realized that the original lyric was hurtful and offensive to some people. We never intended to make anyone feel uncomfortable, and we believe that this change better reflects the spirit of the song."

Social Impact

The lyric change in "Mr. November" is not an isolated incident. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the impact that lyrics can have on listeners. Many artists have chosen to revise or retire songs that contain offensive or outdated language.

These changes reflect a broader social shift towards greater inclusivity and respect for all people. As society evolves, so too does the language we use and the art we create. The lyric change in "Mr. November" is a testament to the power of art to inspire change and promote a more just and equitable world.