Don't Put It Down

The song 'Don't Put It Down' from the musical 'Hair' delves into the complex relationship between patriotism and dissent. The lyrics juxtapose a deep love for the nation, symbolized by the American flag, with a sense of alienation and critique. The repeated mantra 'Om mane padme om' introduces a spiritual element, suggesting a search for deeper meaning and peace amidst the chaos of national identity and political turmoil.

The act of 'folding the flag' is portrayed as a gesture of care and respect, akin to putting the nation to bed for the night. However, the narrator's experience of 'falling through a hole in the flag' symbolizes a sense of disillusionment or betrayal by the very symbol they revere. This imagery captures the tension between the ideal of the nation and the reality of its flaws, reflecting the countercultural sentiments of the 1960s when 'Hair' was created.

The chorus, with its insistent repetition of being 'crazy for the red blue and white,' underscores a fervent, almost obsessive patriotism. Yet, the shifting order of the colors and the inclusion of 'yellow fringe' hint at a more nuanced and critical perspective. The lyrics address the judgment faced by those who 'look different' and are perceived as subversive, highlighting issues of conformity and the marginalization of dissenting voices. Ultimately, the song captures the paradox of loving one's country while also challenging its shortcomings, a theme that resonates with the broader anti-establishment ethos of 'Hair.'