Common Ground

IQ's song 'Common Ground' delves into the harrowing experiences of soldiers during the Battle of the Somme in World War I. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the brutal reality faced by young men who were thrust into one of the deadliest battles in history. The song opens with a reflection on the passage of time, noting that 70 years have passed since that fateful day on July 1, 1916. This sets the stage for a poignant exploration of the human cost of war, as the lyrics recount the loss of the 'young and brave' from 'the cradle to the grave.'

The narrative then shifts to the battlefield, where the simplicity of the battle plan is contrasted with the unimaginable horror faced by the soldiers. The exchange between Company 'A' and Company 'B' highlights the tension and fear among the troops, as well as the rigid military hierarchy that demanded obedience despite the evident danger. The imagery of the 'first line rose, and the first line fell' underscores the relentless and tragic nature of the conflict, while the reference to a poet's description of a 'Sunlit vision of Hell' captures the surreal and nightmarish quality of the battle.

Amidst the chaos and carnage, the song finds a glimmer of hope in the soldiers' shared humanity. The Tommies on the Somme sing about their desire to transform 'no-man's land into a common ground,' a powerful metaphor for unity and reconciliation. This aspiration for common ground serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring human spirit and the possibility of finding peace even in the darkest of times. IQ's 'Common Ground' is a moving tribute to the soldiers of the Somme and a reflection on the broader themes of war, loss, and the quest for unity.