The U.S. vs. John Lenon response - Marc Dunham
I believe that music does have the ability to cause significant changes in the world. Music and art are not logical or rational media, but rather they appeal to an individual’s feelings and emotions. John Lennon is a master of this emotional connection with his listeners. One play of “Imagine” tells you just how strong this connection can be. Considering the inevitable magnification of these evocations by the emotional effects of social agendas such as the civil rights movement and the backlash against the Vietnam War during Lennon’s time, and it’s no wonder that the American government was concerned about his ability to rally supporters and protesters to his cause.
According to Lennon, several intimidation tactics, such as non-discreet shadowing and phone tapping, were taken by government agencies to coerce him into silence. The most public and nearly successful attempt was made when a notice of deportation was slipped under his front door, courteously bringing to his attention that his “temporary stay” in the United States had come to an end. The government felt cornered by his popularity and influence over the American people, and felt that these measures were a necessary attempt to bring stability to a volatile situation. However, I believe that this ultimately would have worked against them, causing riots and protests had he actually been successfully deported.