![]() In the years between the first production of South Pacific on Broadway and the subsequent film version, other changes also made for a more receptive atmosphere. The author’s discussion of the song concludes with observations on what had and had not changed between the song’s debut on Broadway and its film presentation: The article goes on to note that by the time of the 1958 review, “Recent events in America in fact gave the theme of racial intolerance, and the song in particular, a special poignancy” before discussing the 1957 fight over racial integration of the Little Rock public school system. Another critic, writing for Films in Review in April 1958, praised the number as a commendable plea for racial tolerance'. Variety believed the number would raise discussion', describing it as a punchy Hammerstein lyric that frankly propagandizes against racial bigotry'. With the film version of South Pacific the song, `You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught, continued to elicit comment. ![]() A number of early reviewers did in fact criticise its inclusion, but as time went on the song received more praise than criticism. Nevertheless, Rodgers and Hammerstein remained adamant that the song stay in the play. Some felt its sensitive content might prevent the musical from achieving the success it deserved. When the stage version of South Pacific was originally produced, some experienced theatrical people pressured Rodgers and Hammerstein to leave out the song. The song directly challenges the notion that racism is something innate, but argues that it is learned from an early age. Having witnessed this interchange, Joe Cable sings the song which beginsYou’ve got to be taught to hate and fear'. Emile, though, rejects the idea that such prejudice is inborn. She tells him her decision is not so much based on reason, as something born in her. In the preceding scene, Nellie tells Emile De Becque she cannot marry him because of his children's Polynesian mother. The song is performed by the Joe Cable character (played by John Kerr in the film while the vocals were by Bill Lee). The film’s theme of racial intolerance crystallises in the musical number You've Got to be Carefully Taught'. This song (and the discussion of racism in the musical) were very controversial. is not born in you! It happens after you’re born This song is sung by Lieutenant Cable, with the line
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