The Handwritten Lyric Sheet For “This Land Is Your Land” With Their Personal Notes

April 1, 2025

In the dusty attic of a small house in Brooklyn, New York, a young man named Woody Guthrie sat surrounded by scraps of paper, his guitar resting against the wall. It was the late 1930s, a time of great struggle for many Americans as the Great Depression cast a long shadow over the nation. Woody, with his wild curly hair and a twinkle in his eyes, was a man on a mission. He wanted to capture the spirit of the people, their hopes, and their dreams, and he knew music was the key. One day, he picked up a piece of yellowed paper and started to write. Little did he know, those words would evolve into one of the most beloved songs in American history, “This Land Is Your Land.”

As Woody scribbled away, his passion poured onto the page. He wrote about the vast, beautiful landscapes of America, the mountains, the rivers, and the cities. But he also wrote about the people—the workers, the farmers, and the families who struggled to make ends meet. What made this lyric sheet special was Woody’s personal notes scribbled in the margins. “Remember the hungry,” one note read, and another noted, “This is for the people who need a voice.” These reflections were not just words; they were a call to action, a plea for unity and understanding. Each line captured Woody’s belief that the land belonged to everyone, regardless of their situation.

After completing the song, Woody performed it at gatherings, rallies, and even on the radio. People began to connect to his message. It resonated deeply during a time when many felt disconnected and forgotten. Yet, not everyone appreciated his radical ideas. Some critics called him an outsider. But Woody didn’t let the negativity stop him. Instead, he used it to fuel his passion. Every time he faced hardship, every time someone dismissed him, he wrote more songs. His resilience became part of his identity, turning pain into poetry.

The handwritten lyric sheet, filled with his personal notes, eventually made its way to the Library of Congress, a testament to Woody’s influence on music and culture. It became a symbol of hope and change, inspiring countless artists and activists. “This Land Is Your Land” transformed from a simple folk song into an anthem that gave a voice to the voiceless. It was sung at protests, school gatherings, and family picnics, reminding listeners of a shared humanity.

Woody’s legacy lived on, not just through his songs but through the spirit of community he fostered. He showed that music could be a powerful tool for change, capable of bridging divides and inspiring generations. Even in the face of adversity, Woody’s passion and resilience shone through, encouraging others to believe in the beauty of their dreams and the importance of standing together. His handwritten lyrics, with all their imperfections and raw emotion, became a beacon of hope—a reminder that, no matter the struggles, we all share this land, and it is ours to cherish and protect.