And if there’s any hope for America, it lies in a revolution, and if there’s any hope for a revolution in America, it lies in getting Elvis Presley to become Che Guevara.

Meaning of the quote

The quote suggests that the only way for America to change and improve is through a major revolution. However, the person who said this believes that such a revolution would only happen if a famous American icon, like the musician Elvis Presley, were to become a radical revolutionary leader like Che Guevara. In other words, the quote implies that a revolution in America is unlikely to occur unless a beloved celebrity strongly supports and leads it.

About Phil Ochs

Phil Ochs was an American singer-songwriter and political activist known for his sharp wit, sardonic humor, and distinctive voice. He wrote hundreds of songs in the 1960s and early 1970s, many of which addressed social and political issues of the time, and performed at numerous rallies and events during the counterculture era.

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More quotes from Phil Ochs

Even though you can’t expect to defeat the absurdity of the world, you must make that attempt. That’s morality, that’s religion. That’s art. That’s life.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

Step outside the guidelines of the official umpires and make your own rules and your own reality.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

Leaving America is like losing twenty pounds and finding a new girlfriend.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

When they show the destruction of society on color TV, I want to be able to look out over Los Angeles and make sure they get it right.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

In such ugly times, the only true protest is beauty.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

God isn’t dead – he’s just missing in action.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

It is wrong to expect a reward for your struggles. The reward is the act of struggle itself, not what you win.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

The fortunes of the entire world may well ride on the ability of young Americans to face the responsibilities of an old America gone mad.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

And if there’s any hope for America, it lies in a revolution, and if there’s any hope for a revolution in America, it lies in getting Elvis Presley to become Che Guevara.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

Does defending liberalism leave you friendless and perhaps wondering about your breath?

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

There is an urgent need for Americans to look deeply into themselves and their actions, and musical poetry is perhaps the most effective mirror available. Every newspaper headline is a potential song.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)

The final story, the final chapter of western man, I believe, lies in Los Angeles.

Phil Ochs

American protest singer and songwriter (1940-1976)