"I remember hearing the song when I was 12 or 14 in - it must have been in Chicago, 'cause we didn't have a radio on the farm, and it was during the second World War. I had three brothers in that war who went overseas"

In this quote, Abbey Lincoln reviews a poignant memory from her youth, grounding it in the historical context of World War II. The quote paints a vibrant image of a time when radio was a principal medium for music and interaction, yet not everyone had access to it, particularly in backwoods. Lincoln recalls hearing a specific song that left a lasting impression on her; she was around 12 to 14 years of ages, so it most likely accompanied the early 1940s. This was a period marked by worldwide chaos but also by a rich age of music that consisted of the early days of jazz, swing, and big band sounds that would later affect her own musical career.

Lincoln keeps in mind that she heard the tune in Chicago, suggesting a go to or a short-lived stay in the city, considered that her home, a farm, did not have a radio. This detail highlights the juxtaposition in between urban and rural living throughout that age, showing a time when technological gain access to and entertainment were distributed unevenly. Chicago, understood for its vibrant music scene, especially jazz and blues, acts as a backdrop to her musical awakening.

Her recollection is likewise steeped in an individual historic context, as she points out having three siblings fighting overseas. This information highlights the pervasive effect of World War II on American families, with many having actually loved ones directly associated with the war effort. The music she heard in Chicago most likely provided not simply entertainment, however likewise a sense of connection and possibly solace throughout a time of unpredictability and anxiety.

The quote also subtly indicates styles of memory and fond memories. Lincoln's recollection is not almost the tune itself, but about the era, the socio-cultural dynamics, and the individual circumstances that framed her experience. Her memories encapsulate a specifying minute where personal and historical narratives intersect, painting a poignant picture of life during wartime America. Through this quick reflection, we get insight into the developmental experiences that formed Abbey Lincoln's worldview and eventual creative ventures.