sadly I have had to give this the thumbs down. The old one should have been updated.the the things that was once their pride is still their pride.The loss of any mention of the Queen,Britain or even the Commonwealth is a great shame
I love this new version! I liked the original, and all the historical references EXCEPT those about James Wolfe (who the Canadians at that time fought against) and some of the references to other British dominions. Even though we do absolutely share a heritage with Ireland and so forth, there are no references to France, which was dissapointing. These lyrics are more unique to us. Congratulations on the new song!
@CanadianGuerrilla Merci beaucoup. I would say, however, that 'les Canadiens' of pre-British Canada are not the same as Canadians today who are the product of British Canada because Canada, as a country, rather than as a French colony, came into existence in 1867. It is a matter of citizenship rather than ethnicity. I still would prefer to keep the Queen or King in the song because it is so deeply embedded in 'Canadian' culture.
That is how you see it, and that's fair enough, but I always think that a country cannot come together unless the two great racial streams embrace each other's respective histories as their own. An Albertan should be able to consider Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine as a hero. I always see the people's history as the country's history. I may not be French Canadian (although I'm almost certain there's a family strand, my grandfather and I are researching it), but I see their history as my
@piddflicks Canada's political system, its legal system (except for civil matters in Quebec) and its economic system are all British, not French. In the 19th century, the leaders of French Canada were *grateful* for the Conquest.
@TiocfaidhArLa Yes, I perhaps could leave the Queen in the chorus but the social/political climate in Canada today is far removed from the days when I was a boy in British Canada. The original, magnificent lyrics are dedicated to the British Empire, to England, Scotland and Ireland, and the land of the Maple Leaf as being a part of the British Empire and the battles to preserve British North America. I grew up with these and we sang them easily because we were surrounded by all things British.
I like the true maple leaf forever. No tip toeing around our history with it. This only shames those who faught and died for this country including members of my family from the 1700s to this day.
@YukiNekoPrincess You mean militaristic like the Canadian army freeing the Netherlands from Nazi occupation and starvation? Noble deeds are differeent from militarism which refers to the use of military force for its own sake and usually not for anything near noble.
@piddflicks I didn't know "militaristic" referred to the use of military force for its own sake. I was using it here to describe the style of the music.
By the way, I am extremely grateful for the liberation of the Netherlands by the Canadian army.
why take away the bit connection from the song that refers to britain? was it done to satify immigrants,and uneducated youngsters from today generation?
This is revisionistic garbage. The whole appeal of the song to Anglo-Canadians is its allusions to our historic ties to Britain. This version evidently bows down to the Quebec nationalists and takes all of that out. Well, would this ever be done to a patriotic Qubecois song? No. Britain had a huge role in the founding of this country, and as an Anglo-Canadian I find this attempt to wipe us out of Canadian history disgraceful and offensive.
@TheBassmaster1986 "This version evidently bows down to the Quebec nationalists and takes all of that out."
No. The new version is about Canada. The old version is just about kissing England's ass and triumphalizing over people who were doing nothing more than making their homes here. Whatever Britain might have been to Canada 150 or 200 years ago, it's not that now, and we're not that people anymore. So if you wanna be English, then fuck off to England. It's several 1000 miles that way -->.
@TheBassmaster1986 No, the new version is about Canada. The old one is about Britain. Britain, and triumphalizing over the people who were doing nothing more than making their homes here. It isn't about Canada and it serves no purpose but to divide us from ourselves. So if you want to be Canadian, shelve it. If you want to be English, then fuck off to England. It's several thousand miles that a-way; and this ain't it.
@maxrocks1 Then why am I in my 40s and have never heard the thing sung in public in my life? I didn't even know the song existed till I was in high school. I'll tell you why: it's an embarrassment to virtually any Canadian alive today.
@PatchesRips Because you live in Canada, where public education of the masses about our history is all but absent. Most people on the street can't explain the basics of how or government works, nor our main constitutional documents. I would venture to say that there are MANY Canadians out there who couldn't even sing our current national anthem if asked on the spot. I feel no embarrassment about The Maple Leaf Forever. None at all, and I can't see why someone else would.
@maxrocks1 "I feel no embarrassment about The Maple Leaf Forever. None at all, and I can't see why someone else would."
I dare you to go sing it in Quebec City, then. See, I think you know precisely why it's vanished from the public space of this country. You're just disingenuous about it because you feel an allegiance to another country that isn't your own.
@PatchesRips I feel allegiance only to Canada, and maybe a bit to Russia, my ethnic homeland. If you speak of the United Kingdom: I have never been there, and I have traveled a fair bit on my own dime. Had I allegiance I would have gone already. Just because there are a group of intolerant, racist dickheads in La Belle Province (not most people, most people there are lovely and I'm planning a visit in a few months), doesn't mean that I will not be damn proud of our country. Fuck 'em!
@maxrocks1 That's just the point. I don't see what "In days of yore, from Britain's shore, Wolfe, the dauntless hero came, and planted firm Britannia's flag on Canada's fair domain" has to do with being proud of Canada. It sounds more like a thinly-veiled joke about a sexual occurrence, to be honest. Aside from making a mere incident out of what was a disaster for the people who were already Canadians in 1759, what does it have to say to modern Canadians with no British heritage?
@PatchesRips I am proudly of Russian heritage, and it says to me that our legal system, form of government, and traditions came largely from British settlement. How was that a disaster for the people already here? The French were guaranteed their language and religious rights under the Québec Act. Otherwise they probably would have been annexed by the USA and lost their culture (just go to Louisiana and see how many people still speak their French language!).
@maxrocks1 It's also true for the people of the United States. They own up to it, but don't seem to feel the obliges them to live in thrall of the head of state of a whole other nation. I think we can give a tip of the hat to Britain and France for the broader strokes of our culture without feeling we have to constitutionally prostrate ourselves before either one, and I say that as someone whose heritage IS British and French. The song's old words aren't about someone like you. The new ones are.
@maxrocks1 "Most people on the street can't explain the basics of how or government works"
I disagree; I think most people in this country have a visceral sense of how Canada REALLY works day to day. What they no longer do is spend a lot of time blow balloon juice about dunsels connected to it that don't really do anything except add lace to cuffs and collars of a workable Hudson's Bay coat, like the monarchy. Most people are versed in the basics of how Parliament works, because it's relevant.
I like it (except for the God bit). It's better than the borrring one sung by Anne Murray where the lyrics were all about blue skies, green grass, peace, etc, etc, etc. (I'm being a bit nit-picky; however, in Canada it's sea to sea to sea (the northern waters, don't forget). x
While I still prefer the original version, brimming with its British patriotic fervor, I like the fact that this new version pays homage to our veterans and our fallen heroes from the two World Wars and the other conflicts Canadians have fought and died in. The tip of the hat to the Fathers of Confederation is a nice touch, too.
This version is brilliant. I have always enjoyed this tune played on the pipes, but it is not as commonly played by pipe bands today as it was 30 or 40 years ago. The original lyrics were somewhat exclusionary; I hope this version catches on and the song becomes popular again.
Whitewash revisionism at its worst. I'd be willing to bet that if the current trend continues "O Canada" will be officially instumental within a few years so as not to offend anyone.
Well, not exactly true. Yes, Saxe-Coburg Gotha had been the house name before WWI, it was from Prince Albert, who brought many reforms on democracy and human rights, and on better treatment of labourers and the poor. Although, yes the Hanoverian house was German by descent, it was also English and Scottish by descent too, and the last German born king died in 1759. That would be the Queen's GGGG grandfather, so not fair at all really.
@PrometheanRunGood This is a ridiculous post. What is your point? It wasn't Elizabeth II who changed the name, it was her father, King George V. He willingly abandoned the name Saxe-Coburg Gotha because of anti-German sentiment in Britain in WWI, and because George V was a proud, and patriotic Briton! I agree with flosssock - the original is better. God save the Queen, and God save Canada! May the Dominion last for centuries to come: a Canada unified under one Maple Leaf and one Crown!
What I have on my favourites list is nobody's business. And you still haven't answered my question: what was the point of your INCORRECT post? Its people like you who have NO sense of patriotism who are ruining this great nation. If you don't love the crown and country, then you are welcome to leave. God save the Queen! By the way, I learned my sense of LOYALTY from the military legacy of my family. I also have a Masters Degree in Canadian history, what about you?
@PrometheanRunGood I applaud your efforts as a part of our Nation's armed forces. Thank you for your service to Canada. Since you are a member of our armed forces though, and an officer no less, I am even more perplexed by your attitude toward the Queen. Please, what's the deal?
@PrometheanRunGood As an infantry officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, I feel inclined to respond to this post disrespecting the Crown. The monarchy is an integral part of what sets our proud forces apart from the rest of the rabble that passes for a military in this world. As an officer it is your duty and responsibility to uphold such values held dear by the institution of the CF. If you are going to post here using your affiliation as an argument, you should take care to remember that.
@daelomin2 Yeah, where does this guy get off exercising free speech? It's not like that's one of the dear values he has a duty and responsibility to uphold or anything.
@roytomb "It wasn't Elizabeth II who changed the name, it was her father, King George V."
Her father was George VI. Her grandfather, George V, did not yield his name "willingly". He did so out of a genuine apprehended fear of fervent anti-German sentiment in Britain during WWI leading to a republican revolution. A proud patriotic Briton he may have been, but what has that to do with Canada? We're not Britons, and our songs and head of state shouldn't suggest to the world that we are.
I'll be frank.. this is bland, generic, and frankly, junk. I much prefer the original lyrics, and the sense of origin, history and pride they bring over this.
@Egg573 Although the original was a little sentimental towards the old country, I feel it gave the song identity of where it came from and where it was going. As a Brit. I don't wish to offend but I preferred The Maple Leaf Forever over Oh Canada.
As a Canadian, I will tell you you're absolutely 100 percent right. You may offend some people, but know there are people who will support you, and many of us.
@4svennie "As a Brit. I don't wish to offend but I preferred The Maple Leaf Forever over Oh Canada."
Well, as a Canadian, I don't wish to offend, but when I sing songs about MY country, I don't want or need them to be songs about YOUR country. If I told you I'd prefer you sang The Star-Spangled Banner or Advance Australia Fair instead of God Save the Queen, what would you think of me?
Lets see now. We have "O Canada," O Canada en Francais," Now thay want to change the English version of O Canada, and we have two versions of "The Maple Leaf Forever." I'm from Saskatchewan. How about we adopt Johnny Cash's song--The Girl from Saskatatoon!
I'm American, and its nice to see a country so ready to embrace diversity rather than argue that any change will take away from a country's "heritage" which usually means white-centered ways. It was a great song only made better by these lyrics. By the way, I wish we had a monarchy so someone could take care of all the formal stuff and our government could worry about governing.
@aalynch30 And what's wrong with heritage?? Those who forget the past are condemmed to repeat it.Does that mean you'd rather have our country become a British colony again? The valus that America is based on,though not always practiced are meant for ALL races not just one! There's nothing wrong with heritage,you Anti-American piece of trash!
I'm sorry, but I must profess that these new lyrics are terrible and are nothing but a liberal, politically correct attempt to re-write history. Those who fought and died under the real song, not this rubbish, would be stirring in their grave if they were to hear these new lyrics.
There is nothing wrong with the Britishness of the original lyrics. They represent a true heritage of the country. Leave heritage songs like these alone.
I love these new lyrics, less Britain oriented, & more modern Canadian.Though I respect Britain, and the Queen, I, along with many Canadians feel we should be able to stand on our own. This is not a denial of our history, but rather a vision of the future. We should be proud of our roots, but also proud of where we've come.Canada has ancestry of many countries, not just English,also French of course, & German, Ukrainian, Italian etc. To be a national song it has to reflect our true make up.
I think this version could be our national anthem.. I think "long may it wave and god defend" coulda stayed "long live our Queen and heaven bless" though
Is it not grand that a person can not wake up or listen to a piece of music without a fight breaking out every time.
You go to a Toronto Maple Leafs Fan site, a Habs or Senators fan must cross over to cause a disturbance for the sake of stirring the pot, if not smoking it.
Republicans, complain about the Monarchy, and the British
but they offer no alternatives, resolutions except throw it
@CommonwealthCanadian Well that's not cool! Some people in America act like that too.They say get rid of something,but don't have a better replacement for it
This is about a song that has two sets of words - some will like the first version - some the second and some will like neither version. Some of the bloggers here sound like they have a chip on their shoulder - all who truly support Canada should understand that everyone is entitled to their opinion - and personal attacks are uncalled for!
Did you idiots know that Canada is the only country in the world to produce a non British born Prime Minister. Prime Minister Andrew Bonar Law of the United Kingdom (1922-1923) was a Canadian born in New Brunswick. We should be honoured to produce the non British born Prime Minister.
We in Canada, Australia and New Zealand should rejoin our motherland (United Kingdom) in a Federal Union to opose NAFTA, EU and any other enemies of our people and show them who is boss.
I removed the one thumb down on your comment. I did not know that the first Candian Born Priminster was from NB. Good for NB I can see your big picture and support the need for more soverignty. NAFTA Has become the WTO not good for produceing jobs or maintaining the personal dignity were being striped of as a soverign nation. Its time to send the Rothschilds and Racketfelans to the impailing pikes. In this im sure the overwhelming majority of victums of NAFTA and the EU will agree.
@BritishQuebecer Beautiful man. I'm British and I'm proud. Unfortunately the E.U. (let me clear my throat of that foul taste) wants everyone to give up all rights to dominions, protectorates and dependants, to abandon national identity and join a common cause of shying away from war and patting ourselves on the back for giving aid to war torn counties. I will never class myself as european. We fought so long to be who we are to say 'fritz, franc and jose, heres my country'. God save the Queen.
@4svennie So you don't want to be "European" (which you are, like it or not, by dint of geography), and fought so as to have YOUR OWN identity... but for some reason, you see nothing ironic in suggesting that MY national identity ought to remain some horse cart hitched onto yours.
@PatchesRips Yes Great Britain is within Europe as a continent, but collectively it resides in The British Isles. I like this song, not because it has my country in it, but because it has meaning. But each to his own. So I'll wish you a great day, take care and all the best for the future TTFN.
@TheBassmaster1986 "I guess you forgot Ulster is part of Britain and not Ireland."
No, you can't look at those ugly buggers and miss THAT fact. Course the minute they all get on the boat and fuck off back where they belong puts paid to that.
@BritishQuebecer "We in Canada, Australia and New Zealand should rejoin our motherland (United Kingdom) in a Federal Union"
You'll have to hop in your TARDIS and head back to the 1890s, then. The whole imperial parliament ship has sailed. Thanks but no thanks. Vive la revolution.
@BritishQuebecer *sigh* so you're either for Americanization or hanging on to the coattails of Britain. Neither contains worthwhile vision. A proper Canada is an independent Canada, one which does not play into the desires of the Manifest Destiny or suit the whims of Imperialist Oligarchs across the sea. We may have started as a colony, but even our diminished ties and personal union with Britain is moronic today. And providing a single British PM is hardly justification to stick with them.
@LokitheFiend Hear hear. FDR's son, Franklin D Roosevelt Jr, was born a US citizen on Campobello Island, New Brunswick, and had political aspirations. If he'd won the presidency, would that be a reason for sharing our head of state with the United States? Of course not. So why is the fact that a Canadian became head of government in the UK considered a support for the same notion vis-a-vis that country?
@BritishQuebecer And? No one cares about this insignificant point in history, nor gives a shit about your insignificant babbling! Long live the Canadian republic!
How I wish your sentiment could be implemented. But, our inglorious politicians, running scared of the 'multi-culture' society (ie scared of offending muslims, and wanting to forget our shared history, and the monarchy!) will NOT do a thing.
Lots of British people (and I mean a lot) don't like being part of the EU, but we're still in it. It's not so bad; we can travel without passports, we don't need visas to live or work anywhere else in the EU, etc.
We love our Canadian (and Commonwealth) allies dearly, we've just got over the taking over the world syndrome.
Actually, I would take the oath however, I would hold my nose between my left thumb and index finger while crossing my right index and forefinger during the taking of the oath to sa majesté and every time her name would appear in the oath I would replace it with CANADA.
FYI Mr. idiot pvt james, not once in any of my comments have I said anything negative about the UK or its positive role in the building of this proud country so you really should be more circumspect before commenting.
Why don't you read my comments before commenting? I have acknowledged her and her line as HoS. I will go even further - there are political and financial advantages to having a non-elected HoS who has held the post for 50+ yrs and who resides in a foreign country and exercises her being queen in the Right of Canada every 5-7 years or so.
There are also disadvantages, notably she is not a CANADIAN. She is a foreigner. pteJames - do you remember Grenada in 1982? A Commonwealth country with a democratically elected government? How much of a defence do actually that this queen and her British Prime Minister really put up against the US invader? The queen and her line are British FIRST and will always be British FIRST. Furthermore, I would not expect her to choose Britain over Canada. Do you honestly believe that she would?
A HoS must always put it's Nation's interests ahead of all other considerations. I do not believe that a foreign HoS can do so for Canada.
Furthermore, you are inferring things in my comments that I have not stated. Please quote me where I have bad-mouthed the queen.
Does she hold Canadian citizenship? No, so my comment is true. Quite the opposite, Canadians are expected to be her SUBJECTS. BTW ptejames, note the word is subject. I am a FREE Canadian, not subject to a foreign HoS.
I disagree with you and all other monarchists. Because I disagree, you believe I am bad-mouthing her. Time for you to get off your high horse.
Here is where our difference lies: To you and all fervent monarchists, the HoS and the country are synonymous. Hitler, Mussolini and Hirohito thought likewise and their fighting men had to retake their oaths pledging allegience to the person, not the country and like you I imagine, they took their oath very seriously - I know my father and uncle did.
Then you have to pull out the "I served" card. Are you implying or openly stating that you are more Canadian than I? That you love Canada more than I? Are you saying that there are only 91,000 (military and militia) TRUE Canadians out of 33,000,000? What are you saying or implying?
You strike me as someone who might hold similar views to former VP Cheney. During Vietnam he received at least 4 deferments for service yet he protested the anti-war protesters! Is Cheney less American ptejames?
I'm an American and found out that to obtain a dual American/Canadian citizenship I would have to swear an oath of allegience to Elizabeth as the Queen of Canada. So yes she is your queen and the verse "God save our Queen and heaven bless the maple leaf forever!" should be restored IMHO.
Well thought out and workable lyrics. Sincerest best wishes in getting this out to all your fellow Candians but I'm afraid it will be a long uphill fight to supplant "O,Canada!" Best of luck from a Yank who prefers this tune and your heartfelt lyrics
well she does doesnt she..lol..lives in buckingham palace..pays her taxes..i think lol..ahh well eh..Im gunna try and visit Toronto next year. Peace to you all!
I love the tune, this should be the national anthem...
However... The lyrics make no mention of the indigenous peoples, and seem quite eurocentric. Also, I think we can axe God out of a modern national anthem.
Why? I have no problems with an Atheist, but the vast majority of us hold our religions dearly. In Britain, Muslims, Christians and Jews alike are represented in the Queen's title "Defender of the Faith" and the philosophical concept of ruling by grace of God. Not Christian God, or Muslim God, but God. That is something that unites people of different religions under a single ruler. Likewise, including God in an anthem unites people of different religions in patriotism for this, our Canada.
The original version is not only horribly anachronistic, but also an affront to our French-speaking brothers and sisters. Which is probably why The Maple Leaf Forever is not our National Anthem. And rightly so. It is a beautiful song however, and the updated lyrics far better reflect a modern Canada in all its glory. God bless the maple leaf and God bless Canada and all her people, from sea to shining sea.
'This is a great version. The first verse ties the past into the present, the second verse relates the 2 great wars to the forming our national identity as Canadians and to our role as peacekeepers and the third verse ties us to the land - every Canadian identifies with the land - the second largest country in the world from sea to sea to sea.'
For those of you so enamoured with the original version - don't you realize:
1. Muir considered himself a British subject and not as a Canadian,
2. the original version completely omits the largest of the four colonies and second most populous colony which negotiated and signed up for the BNA Act of 1867.
3. The original version was xenophobic and ethnocentrist.
Its not bad, but the origional is much better, the Queen may be nothing more than a figure head but she stands for where we came from, and who we are I think we should contiune to have a Queen or King, its just part of Canada. Long live the Queen
She's not my queen and nor will any of her inheritors be the king or queen of me. I am Canadian. Proud and FREE - not subject to any foreign man or woman.
like it or not she still Canadas head of state. So you can pretends she is not your queen all you want but as long as you are Canadian she is as much your queen as harper is your prime minister. So try to have a little respect for this countries history or move to the states if you dont want a queen
you are only half right. She and her family's line are and will continue to be Canada's head of state (much to chagrin) but she will never be my queen. My heart belongs to CANADA, not elizabeth.
How dare you question my respect and love for my country? You are the one kow-towing to a FOREIGN queen! The question now is: Who do you love more? Canada or elizabeth? Instead of me moving to the U.S. maybe you should move to the U.K.!
Not only can I name every PM but I can name every leader of the official opposition! I have driven across this country and have taken west coast and east coast ferries to see my land. I have been from coast to coast to coast. I have sat in the Commons during question period. What gives you the right to question my love of country you 19th century relic?
English (a language I admire greatly) is not even your first language (my apologies, English may be your maternal tongue but you just haven't mastered its usage).
I have the utmost respect for my country's history, from the first arrivals over arctic ice 12,000 years ago to the Vikings, La Nouvelle France, British North America to Confederation and the present.
The mistake you are making is that you think a single person from a single family should hold my allegiance. You speak of respecting Canadas history, well with full respect to you, elizabeth and her family BELONG in Canada's HISTORY, not our present or future.
My father and three uncles marched off to Europe to fight Hitler with this melody in their ears and the Red Ensign flying over their heads. Every time I hear this melody my back goes straight.
Translation into Liberal: This song is racist, and biggotted, because it says god, and it represents anyplace within europe. if you support the queen you are a racist, im a Liberal I don't give reasons why, nor I need too. Save the enviroment. lol I can speak good liberal.
Oh my, it references God, what an offensive word. That can not be. There should be no reference to God in any song. It is very offensive. Just kidding, fuck all the politically correct losers. Even though I may be the most ANTI-Monarch person in Canada the original is way better.
Our ancient rights and liberties have their roots in the Magna Carta of England and the Common Law that has grown over a thousand years. It was that law that was claimed by the American colonists.
I totally agree!!!! It is an INSULT to all loyal Canadians and disrespectful. The Queen and the monarchy is both past, PRESENT, and future..not some historic grandmother to be pushed off like this!
i like the new lyrics the old ones are somewhat out of date but i think you should have kept god save our queen and heaven bless it sounds so much better than long may it wave and god defend
I like the new lyrics, there's just one problem: "Dominion blessed from sea to sea" is not a lyric the government would approve of for 2 reasons: 1. The word Dominion is seldom used by the government, even though it IS Canada's official title. 2. "From sea to sea", just within the past couple decades, we've realized that Canada actually stretches from sea to sea to SEA. They could always change that line of the song, but adding in another sea probably wouldn't fit with the song.
I agree that the word 'Dominion' does not have any fans in some places but it certainly does in our historical identity;having been chosen by the founders from the Bible (also politically incorrect?!). As for the seas...the quote was never meant to be taken literally just as no one would have thought that the Creator violated the sensibilities of
some by limiting His dominion only between two of the seas of the many that He made!
Exactly. We can't just drop our heritage just because someone gets whiny whenever they hear "God save the Queen". The fact is, the British DID beat the French. We are a British-made colony and our fundamentals and practices are taken from a Christian British Culture. Face it. All multiculturalism means is that people of all cultures are allowed to live here. It DOES NOT mean that they can force us to tweak 200 year old customs because they get soft when anyone says the word "British".
(Followup to last comment) However, it seems that this version simply makes it politically correct. People are always going to be offended by stuff. War allusions upset pacifists, british rule allusions upset other cultures, religious allusions upset athiests, so all we have left to sing about is nature, but trees and rivers dont give people a reason to be proud of our country, other countries have them too, the only thing thats really ours IS our history (post-confederation obviously).
I agree with your comment that people will always be offended by the inclusion of somethin like religion, former rule or war etc. However, as a Canadian, they should not be ofended by our heritage, right?
Personally I'd love to have a new anthem written altogether. But if we were to revamp the old one I think that we should remove all of the history references. It should be updated to meet modern preferences. If people want to find out about canada, they should visit a website. An anthem should praise the country that we live in. Not give us a history lesson, besides there is way more stuff to put into the song about our history than there was when the song was made.
I am no language artist. But I did manage to create a version based upon my favorite hockey team. The maple leafs forever. i'll be posting a video of it in a few days.
I don't think i'll touch the patriotic version, i could never do Muir justice.
I believe out anthem should be a way of explaining to people that we are Canada. We are strong and brave, and loyal and proud all of the things that both versions claim. But I think we can all agree that our present anthem sounds lame. It should be GO CANADA! not Oh, Canada...
Both versions of the maple leaf forever excel at this. Speaking as a musician, however, this newer version does not fit well lyrically...it should have been drafted a few more times.
sadly I have had to give this the thumbs down. The old one should have been updated.the the things that was once their pride is still their pride.The loss of any mention of the Queen,Britain or even the Commonwealth is a great shame
georgeamery 4 months ago
Yikes! Where's the fire?
darylfn 5 months ago
I love this new version! I liked the original, and all the historical references EXCEPT those about James Wolfe (who the Canadians at that time fought against) and some of the references to other British dominions. Even though we do absolutely share a heritage with Ireland and so forth, there are no references to France, which was dissapointing. These lyrics are more unique to us. Congratulations on the new song!
CanadianGuerrilla 6 months ago
@CanadianGuerrilla Merci beaucoup. I would say, however, that 'les Canadiens' of pre-British Canada are not the same as Canadians today who are the product of British Canada because Canada, as a country, rather than as a French colony, came into existence in 1867. It is a matter of citizenship rather than ethnicity. I still would prefer to keep the Queen or King in the song because it is so deeply embedded in 'Canadian' culture.
piddflicks 6 months ago
@piddflicks
That is how you see it, and that's fair enough, but I always think that a country cannot come together unless the two great racial streams embrace each other's respective histories as their own. An Albertan should be able to consider Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine as a hero. I always see the people's history as the country's history. I may not be French Canadian (although I'm almost certain there's a family strand, my grandfather and I are researching it), but I see their history as my
CanadianGuerrilla 6 months ago
@piddflicks
own. But hey, that's my two cents.
CanadianGuerrilla 6 months ago
@piddflicks Canada's political system, its legal system (except for civil matters in Quebec) and its economic system are all British, not French. In the 19th century, the leaders of French Canada were *grateful* for the Conquest.
Oswulf1 2 months ago
What exactly is wrong with the original? The Queen is still the Queen of Canada, and should be acknowledged as such.
TiocfaidhArLa 7 months ago 3
@TiocfaidhArLa Yes, I perhaps could leave the Queen in the chorus but the social/political climate in Canada today is far removed from the days when I was a boy in British Canada. The original, magnificent lyrics are dedicated to the British Empire, to England, Scotland and Ireland, and the land of the Maple Leaf as being a part of the British Empire and the battles to preserve British North America. I grew up with these and we sang them easily because we were surrounded by all things British.
piddflicks 7 months ago
I like the true maple leaf forever. No tip toeing around our history with it. This only shames those who faught and died for this country including members of my family from the 1700s to this day.
pratorianxiii 7 months ago
Argh, this version is so militaristic! It nearly hurts my ears. The lyrics are nice, though! But seriously, what's wrong with "God save the Queen"?
YukiNekoPrincess 9 months ago
@YukiNekoPrincess You mean militaristic like the Canadian army freeing the Netherlands from Nazi occupation and starvation? Noble deeds are differeent from militarism which refers to the use of military force for its own sake and usually not for anything near noble.
piddflicks 7 months ago
@piddflicks I didn't know "militaristic" referred to the use of military force for its own sake. I was using it here to describe the style of the music.
By the way, I am extremely grateful for the liberation of the Netherlands by the Canadian army.
YukiNekoPrincess 7 months ago
why is this so fast??? god, what a way to ruin a song
spoonpal 11 months ago
what virsion of lyrics is this?
Astrotastic12 11 months ago
@Astrotastic12 New.
canuckleful 10 months ago
why take away the bit connection from the song that refers to britain? was it done to satify immigrants,and uneducated youngsters from today generation?
broadband01 1 year ago
This is revisionistic garbage. The whole appeal of the song to Anglo-Canadians is its allusions to our historic ties to Britain. This version evidently bows down to the Quebec nationalists and takes all of that out. Well, would this ever be done to a patriotic Qubecois song? No. Britain had a huge role in the founding of this country, and as an Anglo-Canadian I find this attempt to wipe us out of Canadian history disgraceful and offensive.
TheBassmaster1986 1 year ago
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@TheBassmaster1986 "This version evidently bows down to the Quebec nationalists and takes all of that out."
No. The new version is about Canada. The old version is just about kissing England's ass and triumphalizing over people who were doing nothing more than making their homes here. Whatever Britain might have been to Canada 150 or 200 years ago, it's not that now, and we're not that people anymore. So if you wanna be English, then fuck off to England. It's several 1000 miles that way -->.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@TheBassmaster1986 No, the new version is about Canada. The old one is about Britain. Britain, and triumphalizing over the people who were doing nothing more than making their homes here. It isn't about Canada and it serves no purpose but to divide us from ourselves. So if you want to be Canadian, shelve it. If you want to be English, then fuck off to England. It's several thousand miles that a-way; and this ain't it.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
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TheBassmaster1986 1 year ago
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TheBassmaster1986 1 year ago
There was NOTHING wrong with the original version. This is just ridiculous.
maxrocks1 1 year ago 2
@maxrocks1 Then why am I in my 40s and have never heard the thing sung in public in my life? I didn't even know the song existed till I was in high school. I'll tell you why: it's an embarrassment to virtually any Canadian alive today.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@PatchesRips Because you live in Canada, where public education of the masses about our history is all but absent. Most people on the street can't explain the basics of how or government works, nor our main constitutional documents. I would venture to say that there are MANY Canadians out there who couldn't even sing our current national anthem if asked on the spot. I feel no embarrassment about The Maple Leaf Forever. None at all, and I can't see why someone else would.
maxrocks1 1 year ago
@maxrocks1 "I feel no embarrassment about The Maple Leaf Forever. None at all, and I can't see why someone else would."
I dare you to go sing it in Quebec City, then. See, I think you know precisely why it's vanished from the public space of this country. You're just disingenuous about it because you feel an allegiance to another country that isn't your own.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@PatchesRips I feel allegiance only to Canada, and maybe a bit to Russia, my ethnic homeland. If you speak of the United Kingdom: I have never been there, and I have traveled a fair bit on my own dime. Had I allegiance I would have gone already. Just because there are a group of intolerant, racist dickheads in La Belle Province (not most people, most people there are lovely and I'm planning a visit in a few months), doesn't mean that I will not be damn proud of our country. Fuck 'em!
maxrocks1 1 year ago
@maxrocks1 That's just the point. I don't see what "In days of yore, from Britain's shore, Wolfe, the dauntless hero came, and planted firm Britannia's flag on Canada's fair domain" has to do with being proud of Canada. It sounds more like a thinly-veiled joke about a sexual occurrence, to be honest. Aside from making a mere incident out of what was a disaster for the people who were already Canadians in 1759, what does it have to say to modern Canadians with no British heritage?
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@PatchesRips I am proudly of Russian heritage, and it says to me that our legal system, form of government, and traditions came largely from British settlement. How was that a disaster for the people already here? The French were guaranteed their language and religious rights under the Québec Act. Otherwise they probably would have been annexed by the USA and lost their culture (just go to Louisiana and see how many people still speak their French language!).
maxrocks1 1 year ago
@maxrocks1 It's also true for the people of the United States. They own up to it, but don't seem to feel the obliges them to live in thrall of the head of state of a whole other nation. I think we can give a tip of the hat to Britain and France for the broader strokes of our culture without feeling we have to constitutionally prostrate ourselves before either one, and I say that as someone whose heritage IS British and French. The song's old words aren't about someone like you. The new ones are.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@maxrocks1 "Most people on the street can't explain the basics of how or government works"
I disagree; I think most people in this country have a visceral sense of how Canada REALLY works day to day. What they no longer do is spend a lot of time blow balloon juice about dunsels connected to it that don't really do anything except add lace to cuffs and collars of a workable Hudson's Bay coat, like the monarchy. Most people are versed in the basics of how Parliament works, because it's relevant.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
i have always like this song, but it is still a bit "campy" for a national anthem.
Bigredgumball 1 year ago
I like it (except for the God bit). It's better than the borrring one sung by Anne Murray where the lyrics were all about blue skies, green grass, peace, etc, etc, etc. (I'm being a bit nit-picky; however, in Canada it's sea to sea to sea (the northern waters, don't forget). x
petie71 1 year ago
While I still prefer the original version, brimming with its British patriotic fervor, I like the fact that this new version pays homage to our veterans and our fallen heroes from the two World Wars and the other conflicts Canadians have fought and died in. The tip of the hat to the Fathers of Confederation is a nice touch, too.
roytomb 1 year ago
This version is brilliant. I have always enjoyed this tune played on the pipes, but it is not as commonly played by pipe bands today as it was 30 or 40 years ago. The original lyrics were somewhat exclusionary; I hope this version catches on and the song becomes popular again.
drummaxx 1 year ago
Whitewash revisionism at its worst. I'd be willing to bet that if the current trend continues "O Canada" will be officially instumental within a few years so as not to offend anyone.
x35pm 1 year ago
Original is better. God Save the Queen
flosssock 1 year ago 4
@flosssock God save some German woman who changed her last name from Sachsen-Coburg to Windsor? ok.
PrometheanRunGood 1 year ago
@PrometheanRunGood
Well, not exactly true. Yes, Saxe-Coburg Gotha had been the house name before WWI, it was from Prince Albert, who brought many reforms on democracy and human rights, and on better treatment of labourers and the poor. Although, yes the Hanoverian house was German by descent, it was also English and Scottish by descent too, and the last German born king died in 1759. That would be the Queen's GGGG grandfather, so not fair at all really.
Falwren 1 year ago
@PrometheanRunGood This is a ridiculous post. What is your point? It wasn't Elizabeth II who changed the name, it was her father, King George V. He willingly abandoned the name Saxe-Coburg Gotha because of anti-German sentiment in Britain in WWI, and because George V was a proud, and patriotic Briton! I agree with flosssock - the original is better. God save the Queen, and God save Canada! May the Dominion last for centuries to come: a Canada unified under one Maple Leaf and one Crown!
roytomb 1 year ago
@roytomb Did you learn about empire and monarchism from watching the wet t-shirt contests and professional wrestling clips on your favourites list.
PrometheanRunGood 1 year ago
@PrometheanRunGood
What I have on my favourites list is nobody's business. And you still haven't answered my question: what was the point of your INCORRECT post? Its people like you who have NO sense of patriotism who are ruining this great nation. If you don't love the crown and country, then you are welcome to leave. God save the Queen! By the way, I learned my sense of LOYALTY from the military legacy of my family. I also have a Masters Degree in Canadian history, what about you?
roytomb 1 year ago
@roytomb I am an officer of engineers of the Canadian armed forces.
PrometheanRunGood 1 year ago
@PrometheanRunGood I applaud your efforts as a part of our Nation's armed forces. Thank you for your service to Canada. Since you are a member of our armed forces though, and an officer no less, I am even more perplexed by your attitude toward the Queen. Please, what's the deal?
roytomb 1 year ago
@PrometheanRunGood As an infantry officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, I feel inclined to respond to this post disrespecting the Crown. The monarchy is an integral part of what sets our proud forces apart from the rest of the rabble that passes for a military in this world. As an officer it is your duty and responsibility to uphold such values held dear by the institution of the CF. If you are going to post here using your affiliation as an argument, you should take care to remember that.
daelomin2 1 year ago
@daelomin2 Yeah, where does this guy get off exercising free speech? It's not like that's one of the dear values he has a duty and responsibility to uphold or anything.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@roytomb I meant "grandfather" not father.
roytomb 1 year ago
@roytomb "It wasn't Elizabeth II who changed the name, it was her father, King George V."
Her father was George VI. Her grandfather, George V, did not yield his name "willingly". He did so out of a genuine apprehended fear of fervent anti-German sentiment in Britain during WWI leading to a republican revolution. A proud patriotic Briton he may have been, but what has that to do with Canada? We're not Britons, and our songs and head of state shouldn't suggest to the world that we are.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
I'll be frank.. this is bland, generic, and frankly, junk. I much prefer the original lyrics, and the sense of origin, history and pride they bring over this.
Egg573 1 year ago
@Egg573 Although the original was a little sentimental towards the old country, I feel it gave the song identity of where it came from and where it was going. As a Brit. I don't wish to offend but I preferred The Maple Leaf Forever over Oh Canada.
4svennie 1 year ago
@4svennie
As a Canadian, I will tell you you're absolutely 100 percent right. You may offend some people, but know there are people who will support you, and many of us.
Falwren 1 year ago
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@4svennie "As a Brit. I don't wish to offend but I preferred The Maple Leaf Forever over Oh Canada."
Well, as a Canadian, I don't wish to offend, but when I sing songs about MY country, I don't want or need them to be songs about YOUR country. If I told you I'd prefer you sang The Star-Spangled Banner or Advance Australia Fair instead of God Save the Queen, what would you think of me?
PatchesRips 1 year ago
God save our QUEEN and heaven bless the Maple Leaf Forever!
bizbutton 1 year ago 4
Lets see now. We have "O Canada," O Canada en Francais," Now thay want to change the English version of O Canada, and we have two versions of "The Maple Leaf Forever." I'm from Saskatchewan. How about we adopt Johnny Cash's song--The Girl from Saskatatoon!
BrotherJulien 1 year ago
I dont like this
suothparkfan 1 year ago
I'm American, and its nice to see a country so ready to embrace diversity rather than argue that any change will take away from a country's "heritage" which usually means white-centered ways. It was a great song only made better by these lyrics. By the way, I wish we had a monarchy so someone could take care of all the formal stuff and our government could worry about governing.
aalynch30 1 year ago
@aalynch30 And what's wrong with heritage?? Those who forget the past are condemmed to repeat it.Does that mean you'd rather have our country become a British colony again? The valus that America is based on,though not always practiced are meant for ALL races not just one! There's nothing wrong with heritage,you Anti-American piece of trash!
icedogfan1 1 year ago
We need to rid ourselves of that antiquated and unnecessary burden, the monarchy.
scouterjim 1 year ago
I'm sorry, but I must profess that these new lyrics are terrible and are nothing but a liberal, politically correct attempt to re-write history. Those who fought and died under the real song, not this rubbish, would be stirring in their grave if they were to hear these new lyrics.
There is nothing wrong with the Britishness of the original lyrics. They represent a true heritage of the country. Leave heritage songs like these alone.
Falwren 1 year ago
You are too right sir.
canuckleful 1 year ago
I love these new lyrics, less Britain oriented, & more modern Canadian.Though I respect Britain, and the Queen, I, along with many Canadians feel we should be able to stand on our own. This is not a denial of our history, but rather a vision of the future. We should be proud of our roots, but also proud of where we've come.Canada has ancestry of many countries, not just English,also French of course, & German, Ukrainian, Italian etc. To be a national song it has to reflect our true make up.
exposfan77 1 year ago
I think this version could be our national anthem.. I think "long may it wave and god defend" coulda stayed "long live our Queen and heaven bless" though
Petethebatman 1 year ago 13
believe it or not, I along with a few, are Canadian Atheist Monarchists.
kylejones7 1 year ago
Thank god I'm a Canadian.
I'd rather hold onto the Monarchy than join the U.S.A.
God Save The Queen and down with the U.S. manifest destiny!
Canucklesandwich 2 years ago
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Tweedalede 1 year ago
Ugh
Davidedquist 1 year ago
@Canucklesandwich Great another idiot heard from!
icedogfan1 1 year ago
also well put.
God I love this country :)
canuckleful 2 years ago
Is it not grand that a person can not wake up or listen to a piece of music without a fight breaking out every time.
You go to a Toronto Maple Leafs Fan site, a Habs or Senators fan must cross over to cause a disturbance for the sake of stirring the pot, if not smoking it.
Republicans, complain about the Monarchy, and the British
but they offer no alternatives, resolutions except throw it
ANYTHING TO DO WITH HERITAGE THROW IT OUT;
THAT IS A REPUBLICAN CANADIAN-
CommonwealthCanadian 2 years ago 3
@CommonwealthCanadian Well that's not cool! Some people in America act like that too.They say get rid of something,but don't have a better replacement for it
icedogfan1 1 year ago
well put
canuckleful 2 years ago
This is about a song that has two sets of words - some will like the first version - some the second and some will like neither version. Some of the bloggers here sound like they have a chip on their shoulder - all who truly support Canada should understand that everyone is entitled to their opinion - and personal attacks are uncalled for!
TimpleTapper 2 years ago
To Canadian Republicans
Did you idiots know that Canada is the only country in the world to produce a non British born Prime Minister. Prime Minister Andrew Bonar Law of the United Kingdom (1922-1923) was a Canadian born in New Brunswick. We should be honoured to produce the non British born Prime Minister.
We in Canada, Australia and New Zealand should rejoin our motherland (United Kingdom) in a Federal Union to opose NAFTA, EU and any other enemies of our people and show them who is boss.
BritishQuebecer 2 years ago 22
I removed the one thumb down on your comment. I did not know that the first Candian Born Priminster was from NB. Good for NB I can see your big picture and support the need for more soverignty. NAFTA Has become the WTO not good for produceing jobs or maintaining the personal dignity were being striped of as a soverign nation. Its time to send the Rothschilds and Racketfelans to the impailing pikes. In this im sure the overwhelming majority of victums of NAFTA and the EU will agree.
cycimian 2 years ago
so you want us to eliminate the us?
Timesplittters 2 years ago
you have my vote BritihsQuebecer where do I sign
Harahel101 2 years ago
@BritishQuebecer this woul be best for all of us !
adamrep128 1 year ago
@BritishQuebecer Beautiful man. I'm British and I'm proud. Unfortunately the E.U. (let me clear my throat of that foul taste) wants everyone to give up all rights to dominions, protectorates and dependants, to abandon national identity and join a common cause of shying away from war and patting ourselves on the back for giving aid to war torn counties. I will never class myself as european. We fought so long to be who we are to say 'fritz, franc and jose, heres my country'. God save the Queen.
4svennie 1 year ago
@4svennie So you don't want to be "European" (which you are, like it or not, by dint of geography), and fought so as to have YOUR OWN identity... but for some reason, you see nothing ironic in suggesting that MY national identity ought to remain some horse cart hitched onto yours.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@PatchesRips Yes Great Britain is within Europe as a continent, but collectively it resides in The British Isles. I like this song, not because it has my country in it, but because it has meaning. But each to his own. So I'll wish you a great day, take care and all the best for the future TTFN.
4svennie 1 year ago
@PatchesRips
Piss off you Irish prat.
TheBassmaster1986 1 year ago
@TheBassmaster1986
Go bugger a public school boy, limey.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@PatchesRips
Your Priest has already buggered you enough times this past month to make that unnecessary.
Ireland's a shit country anyways, we don't want it. Full of wife-beating drunks and ugly women.
TheBassmaster1986 1 year ago
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@TheBassmaster1986 "Ireland's a shit country anyways, we don't want it. Full of wife-beating drunks and ugly women."
Yeah, time they left Ulster and went back to Scotland. :D
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@TheBassmaster1986 "Ireland's a shit country anyways, we don't want it. Full of wife-beating drunks and ugly women."
Yeah, time they left Ulster and went back to England. :D
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@PatchesRips
I guess you forgot Ulster is part of Britain and not Ireland.
TheBassmaster1986 1 year ago
@TheBassmaster1986 "I guess you forgot Ulster is part of Britain and not Ireland."
No, you can't look at those ugly buggers and miss THAT fact. Course the minute they all get on the boat and fuck off back where they belong puts paid to that.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
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@TheBassmaster1986 "Your Priest has already buggered you enough times this past month to make that unnecessary."
Only thing he buggered this month was your queen. And she loved it. Philip can't get it up anymore. :D
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@TheBassmaster1986 "Your Priest has already buggered you enough times this past month to make that unnecessary."
Only thing he buggered this month was your queen. And she loved it. Phillip can't get it up anymore. :D
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@BritishQuebecer "We in Canada, Australia and New Zealand should rejoin our motherland (United Kingdom) in a Federal Union"
You'll have to hop in your TARDIS and head back to the 1890s, then. The whole imperial parliament ship has sailed. Thanks but no thanks. Vive la revolution.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
Personally, I prefer Vladimir Radian's new lyrics. I think with them, the song would make an excellent flag anthem.
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@BritishQuebecer *sigh* so you're either for Americanization or hanging on to the coattails of Britain. Neither contains worthwhile vision. A proper Canada is an independent Canada, one which does not play into the desires of the Manifest Destiny or suit the whims of Imperialist Oligarchs across the sea. We may have started as a colony, but even our diminished ties and personal union with Britain is moronic today. And providing a single British PM is hardly justification to stick with them.
LokitheFiend 1 year ago
@LokitheFiend Hear hear. FDR's son, Franklin D Roosevelt Jr, was born a US citizen on Campobello Island, New Brunswick, and had political aspirations. If he'd won the presidency, would that be a reason for sharing our head of state with the United States? Of course not. So why is the fact that a Canadian became head of government in the UK considered a support for the same notion vis-a-vis that country?
PatchesRips 1 year ago
@LokitheFiend hear, hear!!
gregbhere 11 months ago
@LokitheFiend agreed on so many levels.
UpstairsMaid 7 months ago
@BritishQuebecer And? No one cares about this insignificant point in history, nor gives a shit about your insignificant babbling! Long live the Canadian republic!
MrMikailus 9 months ago
@BritishQuebecer
How I wish your sentiment could be implemented. But, our inglorious politicians, running scared of the 'multi-culture' society (ie scared of offending muslims, and wanting to forget our shared history, and the monarchy!) will NOT do a thing.
amckayceng 6 months ago
@BritishQuebecer btw, the UK is part of the EU.
Lots of British people (and I mean a lot) don't like being part of the EU, but we're still in it. It's not so bad; we can travel without passports, we don't need visas to live or work anywhere else in the EU, etc.
We love our Canadian (and Commonwealth) allies dearly, we've just got over the taking over the world syndrome.
BasilFawlty4444 3 months ago
Actually, I would take the oath however, I would hold my nose between my left thumb and index finger while crossing my right index and forefinger during the taking of the oath to sa majesté and every time her name would appear in the oath I would replace it with CANADA.
FYI Mr. idiot pvt james, not once in any of my comments have I said anything negative about the UK or its positive role in the building of this proud country so you really should be more circumspect before commenting.
gregbhere 2 years ago
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pteJames 2 years ago
Why don't you read my comments before commenting? I have acknowledged her and her line as HoS. I will go even further - there are political and financial advantages to having a non-elected HoS who has held the post for 50+ yrs and who resides in a foreign country and exercises her being queen in the Right of Canada every 5-7 years or so.
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gregbhere 2 years ago
There are also disadvantages, notably she is not a CANADIAN. She is a foreigner. pteJames - do you remember Grenada in 1982? A Commonwealth country with a democratically elected government? How much of a defence do actually that this queen and her British Prime Minister really put up against the US invader? The queen and her line are British FIRST and will always be British FIRST. Furthermore, I would not expect her to choose Britain over Canada. Do you honestly believe that she would?
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gregbhere 2 years ago
@gregbhere U S invader?? What are you talking about?
icedogfan1 1 year ago
A HoS must always put it's Nation's interests ahead of all other considerations. I do not believe that a foreign HoS can do so for Canada.
Furthermore, you are inferring things in my comments that I have not stated. Please quote me where I have bad-mouthed the queen.
Does she hold Canadian citizenship? No, so my comment is true. Quite the opposite, Canadians are expected to be her SUBJECTS. BTW ptejames, note the word is subject. I am a FREE Canadian, not subject to a foreign HoS.
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gregbhere 2 years ago
I disagree with you and all other monarchists. Because I disagree, you believe I am bad-mouthing her. Time for you to get off your high horse.
Here is where our difference lies: To you and all fervent monarchists, the HoS and the country are synonymous. Hitler, Mussolini and Hirohito thought likewise and their fighting men had to retake their oaths pledging allegience to the person, not the country and like you I imagine, they took their oath very seriously - I know my father and uncle did.
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gregbhere 2 years ago
Then you have to pull out the "I served" card. Are you implying or openly stating that you are more Canadian than I? That you love Canada more than I? Are you saying that there are only 91,000 (military and militia) TRUE Canadians out of 33,000,000? What are you saying or implying?
You strike me as someone who might hold similar views to former VP Cheney. During Vietnam he received at least 4 deferments for service yet he protested the anti-war protesters! Is Cheney less American ptejames?
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gregbhere 2 years ago
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pteJames 2 years ago
Maybe you should go to the UK. Foreigner. Canada will never be the UK no matter how much you WASPs want it to be.
krisfehr13 2 years ago
Duh! Canada is Canada the UK is Scotland England wales & Ireland! as the foreigner bit i bet my family has been here longer then yours try 1700's
pteJames 2 years ago
This song is trash!! why are Canuks trying to change things and rewriting history? Play the real maple leaf for ever !
pteJames 2 years ago
I'm an American and found out that to obtain a dual American/Canadian citizenship I would have to swear an oath of allegience to Elizabeth as the Queen of Canada. So yes she is your queen and the verse "God save our Queen and heaven bless the maple leaf forever!" should be restored IMHO.
FastGMC364 2 years ago 2
Though dropping, "Our watchword evermore shall be" was a serious error, as was the reference to the Queen.
chambebk 2 years ago
I think it is a good version and definitely captures the forceful, noble wording of the original...much better than the cheesy Anne Murray version.
chambebk 2 years ago
I like the old version better.
leprechaunrapist1986 2 years ago
What a bastardization Muir would be rolling in his grave if he heard this tripe
888Tomac888 2 years ago
Well thought out and workable lyrics. Sincerest best wishes in getting this out to all your fellow Candians but I'm afraid it will be a long uphill fight to supplant "O,Canada!" Best of luck from a Yank who prefers this tune and your heartfelt lyrics
oldscout379 3 years ago
oh by the way to all the lover of the old good old Day when ''Speak White'' was the usual answer to Bonjour comment allez vous
The Maple Leaf was used by the
Societé St-Jean Baptiste since 1834
Also used by the Patriote Canadien who figth against the British Imperial corrupted regime...
LeiN514 3 years ago
Maple leaf for ever ...sound like the royal order Of Orange ...kind of English Canadian KKK version
LeiN514 3 years ago
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pteJames 2 years ago
Canada is indapendant. the queen cant do much as Monarch of Britain.
Banno22 3 years ago
She is the monarch of Canada not just Britain
roydosan 3 years ago 6
This comment has received too many negative votes show
but she doesnt really play any role in canada does she though?
Banno22 3 years ago
nor does she in the UK
roydosan 3 years ago
well she does doesnt she..lol..lives in buckingham palace..pays her taxes..i think lol..ahh well eh..Im gunna try and visit Toronto next year. Peace to you all!
Banno22 3 years ago
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pwest16 2 years ago
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Only by ceremony. Since 1977 she has no say in affairs of state. she can only suggest, in stead of the act of directing the affairs.
pwest16 2 years ago
I love the tune, this should be the national anthem...
However... The lyrics make no mention of the indigenous peoples, and seem quite eurocentric. Also, I think we can axe God out of a modern national anthem.
Bakuninite 3 years ago
And for the French version: "Il sait porter la croix".
apacpaco 3 years ago
Why? I have no problems with an Atheist, but the vast majority of us hold our religions dearly. In Britain, Muslims, Christians and Jews alike are represented in the Queen's title "Defender of the Faith" and the philosophical concept of ruling by grace of God. Not Christian God, or Muslim God, but God. That is something that unites people of different religions under a single ruler. Likewise, including God in an anthem unites people of different religions in patriotism for this, our Canada.
somedude221 3 years ago
does anyone know if there are any recordings that i can find of the updated lyrics being sung?
this song should be sung more i dont understand it.
there should be a facebook petition for it lol
pilotlightdan 3 years ago
The original version is not only horribly anachronistic, but also an affront to our French-speaking brothers and sisters. Which is probably why The Maple Leaf Forever is not our National Anthem. And rightly so. It is a beautiful song however, and the updated lyrics far better reflect a modern Canada in all its glory. God bless the maple leaf and God bless Canada and all her people, from sea to shining sea.
nosodualie 3 years ago
I accidentally removed gregbhere's post. Sorry!
'This is a great version. The first verse ties the past into the present, the second verse relates the 2 great wars to the forming our national identity as Canadians and to our role as peacekeepers and the third verse ties us to the land - every Canadian identifies with the land - the second largest country in the world from sea to sea to sea.'
piddflicks 3 years ago
For those of you so enamoured with the original version - don't you realize:
1. Muir considered himself a British subject and not as a Canadian,
2. the original version completely omits the largest of the four colonies and second most populous colony which negotiated and signed up for the BNA Act of 1867.
3. The original version was xenophobic and ethnocentrist.
gregbhere 3 years ago
A March beats a Hymn even on a bad day!
Gillhoolee 3 years ago
Its not bad, but the origional is much better, the Queen may be nothing more than a figure head but she stands for where we came from, and who we are I think we should contiune to have a Queen or King, its just part of Canada. Long live the Queen
MedicPCP 3 years ago 2
She's not my queen and nor will any of her inheritors be the king or queen of me. I am Canadian. Proud and FREE - not subject to any foreign man or woman.
gregbhere 3 years ago
like it or not she still Canadas head of state. So you can pretends she is not your queen all you want but as long as you are Canadian she is as much your queen as harper is your prime minister. So try to have a little respect for this countries history or move to the states if you dont want a queen
MedicPCP 3 years ago
you are only half right. She and her family's line are and will continue to be Canada's head of state (much to chagrin) but she will never be my queen. My heart belongs to CANADA, not elizabeth.
How dare you question my respect and love for my country? You are the one kow-towing to a FOREIGN queen! The question now is: Who do you love more? Canada or elizabeth? Instead of me moving to the U.S. maybe you should move to the U.K.!
gregbhere 3 years ago
Not only can I name every PM but I can name every leader of the official opposition! I have driven across this country and have taken west coast and east coast ferries to see my land. I have been from coast to coast to coast. I have sat in the Commons during question period. What gives you the right to question my love of country you 19th century relic?
gregbhere 3 years ago
English (a language I admire greatly) is not even your first language (my apologies, English may be your maternal tongue but you just haven't mastered its usage).
I have the utmost respect for my country's history, from the first arrivals over arctic ice 12,000 years ago to the Vikings, La Nouvelle France, British North America to Confederation and the present.
gregbhere 3 years ago
page 4 of 4.
The mistake you are making is that you think a single person from a single family should hold my allegiance. You speak of respecting Canadas history, well with full respect to you, elizabeth and her family BELONG in Canada's HISTORY, not our present or future.
gregbhere 3 years ago
Guess I'm in the minority among Canadians like with most things, but I'm in agreement with you.
oceanmaid 3 years ago
Its good to know there are other proud canadians out there
MedicPCP 3 years ago
Comment removed
Marakulous43 3 years ago
My father and three uncles marched off to Europe to fight Hitler with this melody in their ears and the Red Ensign flying over their heads. Every time I hear this melody my back goes straight.
JeffLeChefski 3 years ago 3
Translation into Liberal: This song is racist, and biggotted, because it says god, and it represents anyplace within europe. if you support the queen you are a racist, im a Liberal I don't give reasons why, nor I need too. Save the enviroment. lol I can speak good liberal.
jimmyphack 3 years ago 2
i think we should get rid of the liberals before they finish destorying or country
underfire987 3 years ago 4
Oh my, it references God, what an offensive word. That can not be. There should be no reference to God in any song. It is very offensive. Just kidding, fuck all the politically correct losers. Even though I may be the most ANTI-Monarch person in Canada the original is way better.
budwiesner 3 years ago 4
here here!
jimmyphack 3 years ago 3
The reference to "liberty" makes it sound SO American...
jackiesps6 3 years ago
Our ancient rights and liberties have their roots in the Magna Carta of England and the Common Law that has grown over a thousand years. It was that law that was claimed by the American colonists.
piddflicks 3 years ago
@piddflicks or so they claim?
Mullahgrrl 1 year ago
@jackiesps6 So What?? I was not aware that liberty was only for Americans
icedogfan1 1 year ago
Our Queen is still a part of our heritage and is our head of state so I think to remove the reference isn't right.
RSBenny 3 years ago 3
I totally agree!!!! It is an INSULT to all loyal Canadians and disrespectful. The Queen and the monarchy is both past, PRESENT, and future..not some historic grandmother to be pushed off like this!
bizbutton 3 years ago 2
but she has no power in goverment and never should because a goverment should run on elected people not someone who lives in a certian family
underfire987 3 years ago
The monarchy is part of our traditions as a nation. Being a nation of British persuasion is part of what makes Canada "Canadian."
The current situation is the best option yet. We have our elected representatives on one hand, and our sacred traditions on the other. It's win win.
To pretend that the monarchy isn't part of our heritage is to deny part of what makes us Canadian.
IC79 3 years ago 4
i like the new lyrics the old ones are somewhat out of date but i think you should have kept god save our queen and heaven bless it sounds so much better than long may it wave and god defend
whitewizard1990 3 years ago 5
why no queen
rulebritannia1 3 years ago 4
I recognize this song from"for King and Country" On history
Canadian111Boy 3 years ago
^
Wow My Comment looks 0_o
Canadian111Boy 3 years ago
I like the new lyrics, there's just one problem: "Dominion blessed from sea to sea" is not a lyric the government would approve of for 2 reasons: 1. The word Dominion is seldom used by the government, even though it IS Canada's official title. 2. "From sea to sea", just within the past couple decades, we've realized that Canada actually stretches from sea to sea to SEA. They could always change that line of the song, but adding in another sea probably wouldn't fit with the song.
TamerlanePNR 3 years ago
Thanks for the comment!
I agree that the word 'Dominion' does not have any fans in some places but it certainly does in our historical identity;having been chosen by the founders from the Bible (also politically incorrect?!). As for the seas...the quote was never meant to be taken literally just as no one would have thought that the Creator violated the sensibilities of
some by limiting His dominion only between two of the seas of the many that He made!
piddflicks 3 years ago
Exactly. We can't just drop our heritage just because someone gets whiny whenever they hear "God save the Queen". The fact is, the British DID beat the French. We are a British-made colony and our fundamentals and practices are taken from a Christian British Culture. Face it. All multiculturalism means is that people of all cultures are allowed to live here. It DOES NOT mean that they can force us to tweak 200 year old customs because they get soft when anyone says the word "British".
adamsonite 4 years ago 2
AMEN! (no pun intended)
cdnrxby 4 years ago
(Followup to last comment) However, it seems that this version simply makes it politically correct. People are always going to be offended by stuff. War allusions upset pacifists, british rule allusions upset other cultures, religious allusions upset athiests, so all we have left to sing about is nature, but trees and rivers dont give people a reason to be proud of our country, other countries have them too, the only thing thats really ours IS our history (post-confederation obviously).
adamsonite 4 years ago
I agree with your comment that people will always be offended by the inclusion of somethin like religion, former rule or war etc. However, as a Canadian, they should not be ofended by our heritage, right?
cdnrxby 4 years ago
Personally I'd love to have a new anthem written altogether. But if we were to revamp the old one I think that we should remove all of the history references. It should be updated to meet modern preferences. If people want to find out about canada, they should visit a website. An anthem should praise the country that we live in. Not give us a history lesson, besides there is way more stuff to put into the song about our history than there was when the song was made.
adamsonite 4 years ago
What about this verse? No "history lesson" :-) but certainly heritage and praise.
Our fair Dominion now extends
From Cape Race to Nootka Sound;
May peace forever be our lot,
And plenteous store abound:
And may those ties of love be ours
Which discord cannot sever,
And flourish green o'er freedom's home
The Maple Leaf forever!
cdnrxby 4 years ago
Our history is what we are. Without our history we are absolutely nothing. All that it should include is our history.
Northgrant 4 years ago
I am no language artist. But I did manage to create a version based upon my favorite hockey team. The maple leafs forever. i'll be posting a video of it in a few days.
I don't think i'll touch the patriotic version, i could never do Muir justice.
adamsonite 4 years ago
I believe out anthem should be a way of explaining to people that we are Canada. We are strong and brave, and loyal and proud all of the things that both versions claim. But I think we can all agree that our present anthem sounds lame. It should be GO CANADA! not Oh, Canada...
Both versions of the maple leaf forever excel at this. Speaking as a musician, however, this newer version does not fit well lyrically...it should have been drafted a few more times.
adamsonite 4 years ago