The satirical protest song “Please Mr. Kennedy,” a scathing commentary on the nuclear arms race and anxieties of the Cold War era, is famously featured in the 1961 film “Sail a Crooked Ship.” While not a central plot point, the song’s performance adds a layer of socio-political commentary to the lighthearted nautical comedy.
The Unexpected Appearance in “Sail a Crooked Ship”
“Sail a Crooked Ship,” starring Ernie Kovacs and Dolores Hart, follows a motley crew attempting to refloat a mothballed World War II vessel and pass it off as a luxury liner. It’s a far cry from the serious dramas one might expect to house a song like “Please Mr. Kennedy.” However, the film includes a scene where the crew, attempting to entertain their “passengers” (who are largely unsuspecting marks), puts on a makeshift musical revue. It is during this revue that Bob Dorough, one of the song’s co-writers and performers, along with an on-screen band, delivers a spirited rendition of the anti-war anthem.
The song’s inclusion is almost jarring given the film’s overall tone. Yet, it’s a fascinating snapshot of the era’s anxieties seeping into even the most escapist entertainment. “Please Mr. Kennedy” provides a stark counterpoint to the film’s comedic elements, forcing the audience to briefly confront the looming threat of nuclear annihilation while enjoying the comedic antics of the sailors.
Unpacking the Song: Satire and Social Commentary
“Please Mr. Kennedy” is a masterclass in satirical songwriting. Co-written by Bob Dorough, Marshall Barer, and Joseph Stein (the latter two known for their work on “Fiddler on the Roof”), the song uses humor to address a profoundly serious subject. The lyrics depict a young man desperately pleading with President Kennedy to avoid being drafted and sent to war, highlighting the fear and uncertainty prevalent during the Cold War. The repetition of the plea, “Please Mr. Kennedy, don’t send me off to war,” underscores the sense of helplessness felt by many young Americans at the time.
The song’s success lies in its ability to blend catchy melodies with biting social commentary. It effectively captures the public’s growing unease with the escalating arms race and the potential for nuclear catastrophe. The use of humor allows the song to reach a wider audience, making its message more palatable and, ultimately, more impactful. The song’s inclusion in “Sail a Crooked Ship,” while seemingly out of place, is a testament to the pervasive anxiety surrounding the Cold War, even in seemingly lighthearted entertainment.
The Legacy of “Please Mr. Kennedy”
Despite its brief appearance in a relatively obscure film, “Please Mr. Kennedy” has endured as a powerful anti-war anthem. It’s been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Pete Seeger, and continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s message remains relevant, reminding us of the importance of questioning authority and advocating for peace. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to combine humor and social commentary, making it a timeless piece of protest art.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 FAQs that further explore the song “Please Mr. Kennedy” and its connection to “Sail a Crooked Ship”:
1. Who wrote the song “Please Mr. Kennedy”?
The song “Please Mr. Kennedy” was co-written by Bob Dorough, Marshall Barer, and Joseph Stein.
2. Why was “Please Mr. Kennedy” included in “Sail a Crooked Ship”?
While the film is a comedy, the song was likely included to provide a brief moment of social commentary reflecting the Cold War anxieties of the time. It offered a counterpoint to the film’s lighthearted nature.
3. Is “Please Mr. Kennedy” the main theme song of “Sail a Crooked Ship”?
No, “Please Mr. Kennedy” is not the main theme song of “Sail a Crooked Ship.” It is performed during a musical revue scene within the film.
4. Who performs the song in the film “Sail a Crooked Ship”?
Bob Dorough, one of the song’s co-writers, performs the song in the film, accompanied by a band.
5. What is the message of the song “Please Mr. Kennedy”?
The song is a satirical protest against the nuclear arms race and the potential for young men to be drafted and sent to war. It expresses a plea for peace and a rejection of military conflict.
6. How successful was “Sail a Crooked Ship” at the box office?
“Sail a Crooked Ship” was not a major box office success. It is considered a relatively obscure film, although it has gained a cult following over the years.
7. Where else has “Please Mr. Kennedy” been featured besides “Sail a Crooked Ship”?
The song has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared on various compilation albums. Notable covers include performances by Pete Seeger.
8. Was John F. Kennedy aware of the song “Please Mr. Kennedy”?
There is no definitive evidence to suggest that President Kennedy was aware of the song during his lifetime.
9. What is the significance of the title “Please Mr. Kennedy”?
The title directly addresses President John F. Kennedy, the president at the time the song was written, making the plea for peace a personal appeal to the nation’s leader.
10. What other films feature songs with similar anti-war themes from the same era?
Films like “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb” (1964) and “Fail-Safe” (1964) also explore themes of nuclear war and Cold War anxieties, often through satire and dark humor, though with different musical approaches. Songs from artists like Bob Dylan were also prominently used in films tackling similar subject matter.
11. How does the song use humor to convey its message?
The song uses sarcasm and exaggeration to highlight the absurdity of the arms race. The desperate plea, combined with the catchy melody, creates a humorous yet poignant effect.
12. Is “Please Mr. Kennedy” still relevant today?
Yes, the song’s message of peace and questioning authority remains relevant today, especially in a world still grappling with conflict and the threat of nuclear weapons. Its themes of youthful anxiety facing international conflict have a timeless quality.