Corner Stone

Bob Marley's 'Corner Stone' is a song that resonates with themes of rejection and ultimate triumph. The lyrics draw from the biblical metaphor found in Psalm 118:22, which speaks of a stone rejected by builders that becomes the cornerstone of the structure. Marley uses this metaphor to reflect on his own experiences and struggles, possibly alluding to his feelings of being an outcast or undervalued in society or the music industry. The repeated lines emphasize the idea that what is often overlooked or discarded can, in fact, hold significant value and importance.

The song's chorus, 'The stone that the builder refused will always be the head cornerstone,' serves as a powerful and hopeful message that rejection is not the end of one's journey. It suggests that those who face refusal can still rise to prominence and become essential in their own right. Marley's music often carried messages of empowerment and resilience, and 'Corner Stone' is no exception. It encourages listeners to recognize their worth and potential, even when others do not.

The verses of the song further humanize the 'stone,' with Marley singing about the ability to be 'soft as a pillow' and to 'weep like a willow.' These lines convey a sense of vulnerability and the capacity for love and tenderness, qualities that are not diminished by the experience of being rejected. Marley's plea, 'Don't you think and refuse me,' is a call for acceptance and understanding. The song, therefore, is not just a personal anthem but also a broader message about the importance of giving value to the marginalized and recognizing the contributions everyone can make.