[This is an email I just sent out to the Progarchy authors, and they suggested I make the conversation public. I plan on writing a longer piece on the topic soon – Bryan Morey.]

I have a question that is mainly directed at those of you who are British, but maybe those of you who were around in the 70s can answer it as well. During the fall semester, in my Restoration/Romantic Brit Lit class, I read (and wrote a paper on) William Blake’s poem, “Jerusalem.” When writing that paper, I figured a post on ELP’s Jerusalem was in order. I know this poem/song is a traditional British hymn expounding British nationalism, but I’m not exactly sure what emotions or responses the song brings up for a Brit. I know what I think of or feel when I hear the “Star Spangled Banner” or “God Bless America,” and I’m wondering what images or thoughts “Jerusalem” conjures.

I’m also interested in your opinions on why ELP made “Jerusalem” the first song on Brain Salad Surgery. It is hardly a typical rock song. And for those of you who remember when this album came out, what was the general reception to ELP’s version of “Jerusalem?”

Thanks!

Let me know what you all think in the comments.