Meaning: The quote "When they show the destruction of society on color TV, I want to be able to look out over Los Angeles and make sure they get it right" by Phil Ochs, a musician and political activist, reflects a powerful sentiment about the portrayal of societal issues in the media and the need for accuracy in depicting such events. Phil Ochs was known for his socially conscious and politically charged music, and this quote encapsulates his desire for authenticity and truth in the representation of societal upheaval.

The quote can be interpreted as a call for accountability and responsibility in media representations of social and political turmoil. Ochs seems to be expressing a desire for the media to accurately capture the realities of societal destruction, particularly in the context of Los Angeles, a city that has historically been a focal point for social and political movements. By stating "make sure they get it right," Ochs is emphasizing the importance of not sensationalizing or distorting the portrayal of societal upheaval for the sake of entertainment or ratings.

This quote also speaks to Ochs' personal connection to the issues he addressed in his music. As a musician known for his protest songs and activism, Ochs was deeply invested in shedding light on social injustices and political turmoil. His music often delved into topics such as civil rights, anti-war movements, and the struggles of marginalized communities. The quote reflects his desire for the media to accurately convey the gravity of these issues, particularly as they unfold in a city like Los Angeles, which has been a hub for activism and social change.

Furthermore, the reference to "color TV" in the quote is significant, as it places the statement within a specific historical context. Ochs was active during a time when television was becoming a dominant medium for news and entertainment, and the advent of color television brought a new level of visual impact to the portrayal of societal events. Ochs' reference to color TV can be seen as a commentary on the power of visual media to shape public perception and understanding of societal issues, and his desire to ensure that the portrayal of societal destruction is not distorted or sensationalized for the sake of spectacle.

In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as a plea for empathy and understanding. Ochs may be expressing a desire for the media and society at large to truly comprehend the human impact of societal destruction. By wanting to "look out over Los Angeles," Ochs is positioning himself as a witness to the realities of societal upheaval, and his desire to "make sure they get it right" speaks to his hope for a more empathetic and truthful portrayal of these events.

In conclusion, Phil Ochs' quote "When they show the destruction of society on color TV, I want to be able to look out over Los Angeles and make sure they get it right" encapsulates his desire for authenticity, accountability, and empathy in the media's portrayal of societal issues. It reflects his commitment to shedding light on social injustices and political turmoil, and his hope for a more truthful and humanistic representation of these issues in the public sphere.