Comments on: Previous Polls

By: iany

iany — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 21:35:35 +0000

I’m an atheist and have no middle east connections but I recognise Jerusalem is an allegorical poetic expression and if anything is about striving to build heaven on earth and not waiting for mythical afterlife to better yourself.

God Save the Queen must be the dullest and toe curling anthem ever written.

By: john

john — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 18:06:49 +0000

I can not believe that the vote has been agreed by so few people in England. The government has to get involved in such a serious matter. It sounds like a Jewish lobby which we are all weary about. Keep it English

By: Peter Bulcock

Peter Bulcock — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:41:14 +0000

I am Christian – and proud of it! but it must be remembered that the UK and ENGLAND are strongly a cosmopolitan country and must have a National Anthem that embraces ALL factions. A national anthem does not need to have religious overtones – and in fact should not!
‘Jerusalem’ is totally inadequate as a national anthem! – the words are wonderful but the meaning is too deep! what the world sees and hears is ‘Jerusalem’ – what do they think? what has Jerusalem got to do with England?
The perfect nation anthem without any question is ‘Land of Hope and Glory’ – it appeals to everyone who is English, regardless of their religious belief, it is uplifting, which essentially what it is all about!! and above all It is composed by one of Britains greatest composers – Edward Elgar

By: Peter Bulcock

Peter Bulcock — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:23:28 +0000

All I have heard is about the RESULTS of polls!!! where are the opportunities of actually voting!!!!!!!!!!

By: Nick

Nick — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:22:57 +0000

Maria,

Absolutely right! The lyrics not only clearly refer to England, but also what the heritage of this country is i.e. Christianity! Time everyone understood where England stands; Anglo-Saxon in origin with Christianity at its core.

Perhaps then politicians will understand the need to maintain standards consistent with our heritage.

By: Mardyfella

Mardyfella — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:20:22 +0000

As a proud Englishman and a republican I can’t sing God Save the Queen. As a proud Englishman and an atheist I couldn’t sing Jerusalem. I would vote for a new song.

By: Jim

Jim — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:47:27 +0000

For me the best tune for England would be Jupiter from Holst’s Planet Suite. The part at 3min 15sec is wonderfully stirring.

By: claire

claire — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 03:11:29 +0000

John – we do have Middle Eastern affiliations… England is (nominally) a Christian country, where do you think our so called Judeo Christian value system came from??

Jerusalem refers to the ENGLISH myth in Somerset and Cornwall that Jesus came to England to found Christianity there 2000 years ago….

By: claire

claire — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 03:02:39 +0000

Jerusalem of course! Will make people think about the Middle East? What are you on about! The words are by one of England´s greatest poets, William Blake about creating a paradise on earth in England.

I will not cease from mental fight
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand
Till we have built Jerusakem
iIn Engkand´s green and pleasant land

Uplifting, beautiful, moving and English.

Sadly most English people haven´t got a clue about their own history or culture and that´s why the rest of the world thinks that English culture is boozing and Eastenders. :(

By: andrew hogg

andrew hogg — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 02:58:12 +0000

whats wrong is it just me thatthinks god save the queen is english blodduy hell we do need a rescue please ?