Tradition and the quadruple talent: Intertextuality in the Beatles’ songbook

Abstract This paper explores the literary value of popular song lyrics through the lens of intertextuality, using the Beatles’ songbook as a case study. It aims to bridge the gap between reader-oriented and author-oriented approaches to intertextual research, emphasizing the importance of viewing texts from a broad, interconnected perspective. The study analyses a selected corpus of 27 Beatles songs, ranging from their early hit “I Saw Her Standing There” to their final recordings such as “The End,” to uncover how intertextuality manifests itself in their lyrics. By doing so, the paper seeks to highlight the depth and complexity of pop lyrics, advocating for their recognition as a legitimate subject of academic inquiry. The findings suggest that the Beatles’ lyrics, rich with literary and cultural references, exemplify the postmodern characteristics of pop music, blending high and low culture and showcasing the dynamic, dialogical nature of language and texts. This research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the literary qualities of popular music and underscores the enduring cultural significance of the Beatles.