Short Answer 
The song “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” expresses the disillusionment of veterans facing unemployment despite their past dedication to the country through various contributions. It highlights themes of sacrifice, unfulfilled promises of prosperity, and the stark contrast between their service and current struggles. Additionally, a song is defined as a musical composition that conveys emotions or tells stories, serving purposes such as entertainment and social commentary.
Step 1: Understanding the Lyrics
The lines from the song “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” reflect the feelings of veterans who struggle with *unemployment*. They recall their service and contributions, emphasizing their dedication to the country. The lyrics highlight their past commitment through actions like:
- Working the land (“earth to plow”)
- Serving in the military (“guns to bear”)
- Building a hopeful future (“building a dream”)
Step 2: Defining a Song
A song is defined as a *musical composition* that is created to be sung by the human voice. It combines melody and lyrics to convey emotions or tell stories. Songs can serve various purposes, such as:
- Entertainment
- Artistic expression
- Social or political commentary
Step 3: Related Themes in the Song
The overall theme of “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” addresses the *disillusionment* faced by veterans who, after serving their country, find themselves in dire situations. Their questions about waiting for sustenance illustrate their struggles within the economic landscape, leading listeners to reflect on:
- The sacrifices made for the country
- The unfulfilled promises of prosperity
- The disconnect between service and current hardship