"We don't need no education. We dont need no thought control." Why using double negation?
Why PF uses double negation in their song? "We don't need no education. We dont need no thought control." What is the true sense of this phrase? Or those "no" were used just for rythm?
Search from various English teachers...
Answers · 4
2
One of the great mysteries of our time! Some say that the double negative suggests that they do need education, perhaps ironically. Alternatively it could be as you said, it just fits better rhythmically. However, also worth considering, a double negative doesn't necessarily mean the speaker intends a positive in English. For instance there are American movies where a character will say something like, "There ain't no goddamn way that..." or "I ain't never done such a thing!" and so the double negative serves to reinforce the refusal/denial etc. rather than reverse it, if you see what I mean!
I hope that helps!
1
This is called poetic licence. It's used to reinforce the message of the song Brick in the Wall.
0
It's a lyric from a song. The usual grammar rules do not apply!
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn a language from the comfort of your own home. Browse our selection of experienced language tutors and enroll in your first lesson now!
Start Learning Today
