The Power and Paradox of Ragtime's Patriotic Metaphor

On its surface, the musical masterpiece Ragtime appears to be a celebration of American culture and identity. However, as the curtain rises on the full-company opening number, "We're in the Money," a more complex and nuanced theme begins to unfold. This article delves into the ways in which Ragtime's creators use music, dance, and storytelling to explore the deeply unsettling nature of America's promise.

The Birth of a Nation: A Promising Start

Ragtime, composed by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, premiered on Broadway in 1998. The musical is set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, a time of great social change and upheaval. The story weaves together three distinct narratives: those of Evelyn Nesbit, a beautiful and talented young woman; Harry Houdini, the legendary escape artist; and Coalhouse Walker Jr., a African American pianist fighting for civil rights.

The full-company opening number, "We're in the Money," marks the beginning of this journey into the heart of America's promise. At first glance, the music appears to be an unbridled celebration of patriotism and national pride. The ensemble dances and sings with infectious energy, their voices soaring as they proclaim:

"We're in the money, we're in the cars We're on the move, we're on our way The future's bright, we're making plans We're in the money, every single day"

However, this seemingly carefree anthem belies a more sinister undertone. The lyrics are peppered with references to America's economic and social ascendance, but also hint at the tensions that simmer beneath the surface.

The Uneasy Accord

As the number progresses, the musical hints at the uneasy accord that has always defined America. The chorus sings of "the land of opportunity," a phrase that has become synonymous with the American Dream. Yet, this promise is tempered by the reality of racial and economic disparities that threaten to upend the status quo.

In this context, the music becomes increasingly complex and layered. Ahrens and Flaherty's score weaves together disparate styles and influences, reflecting the cultural melting pot that America represents. The result is a soundscape that feels both inclusive and exclusive, inviting all while asserting dominance over those who are deemed unworthy.

The Paradox of American Identity

Ragtime raises fundamental questions about the nature of American identity. How can a nation founded on the principles of liberty and equality also perpetuate systemic racism and inequality? The musical's portrayal of Coalhouse Walker Jr.'s struggles to assert his rights in a society that denies him basic dignity serves as a stark reminder of this paradox.

Coalhouse, played by Brian d'Arcy James, is a complex and multidimensional character. His music and dance performances are breathtaking, yet he is constantly thwarted by the societal norms that deny him recognition. This frustration is palpable in the lyrics "What I want is to be recognized / What I want is to be heard."

The Dark Side of America's Promise

As Ragtime unfolds, it becomes clear that America's promise has always been tinged with darkness and complexity. The musical highlights the stark contrasts between America's ideals and its harsh realities.

In one poignant scene, Evelyn Nesbit's character recounts the tragic events surrounding her involvement with Harry Thaw, a wealthy socialite who ultimately kills his business partner in a fit of rage. This incident serves as a metaphor for the destructive power that can arise when America's promise is denied to those deemed unworthy.

The Power of Music and Dance

Throughout Ragtime, music and dance serve as powerful tools for storytelling. The ensemble performances are breathtaking, yet also deeply unsettling. Ahrens and Flaherty's score expertly balances nostalgia and innovation, conjuring the past while acknowledging its flaws.

In "We're in the Money," the dancers' energetic movements belie a sense of unease, their feet tapping out a rhythm that feels both carefree and anxious. This tension between liberation and restraint is a hallmark of Ragtime's themes, reflecting the complex and often contradictory nature of America's promise.

A Musical that Challenges American Identity

Ragtime stands as a powerful challenge to our understanding of American identity. By exploring the tensions between promise and reality, Ahrens and Flaherty create a musical that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

This epic story highlights the fraught relationship between America's ideals and its harsh realities, inviting us to confront the complexities of our national identity. As we dance and sing along with "We're in the Money," we are forced to confront the darker aspects of America's promise, even as we celebrate its triumphs.

Conclusion

Ragtime's full-company opening number, "We're in the Money," may initially seem like a celebration of patriotism and national pride. However, upon closer examination, it reveals itself to be a nuanced exploration of the tensions that define America's promise.

Through music, dance, and storytelling, Ragtime presents a complex portrait of American identity, one that acknowledges both its ideals and its flaws. As we experience this magnificent wall of sound, we are invited to confront the paradoxes that have shaped our nation's history, reflecting on the power and complexity of America's promise.