"Lucifer's Hands" lyrics by U2

cover of songs of innocence by u2


"Lucifer's Hands" lyrics by U2

Along with The Crystal Ballroom, "Lucifer's Hands," is an additional track from U2's album "Songs of Innocence," released as part of the deluxe edition, delves into a blend of personal history, spiritual struggle, and the quest for redemption. This song, like many others in U2's repertoire, intertwines the band's personal narratives with broader, more universal themes, allowing listeners to find their own meanings in the lyrics.

One of the primary themes of "Lucifer's Hands" is the struggle between good and evil, both externally and within oneself. The title itself, invoking the name of Lucifer, a symbol of temptation and fallen grace in Christian theology, sets the stage for a narrative about confronting inner demons and moral challenges. The lyrics, "I was chasing down the days of fear, chasing down a dream before it disappeared," suggest a journey through difficulties and uncertainties, metaphorically represented by 'Lucifer's hands' trying to take control.

The song also explores the theme of liberation and rebirth. The lines, "I got out from under Lucifer's hands, and I can dance, I can dance," indicate a triumphant escape from the grip of negative forces, whether they be personal struggles, doubts, or external challenges. This theme of liberation is not just about physical freedom, but also about spiritual and emotional awakening. The ability to dance, in this context, symbolizes joy, freedom, and the reclaiming of one's spirit after being under a dark influence.

Additionally, "Lucifer's Hands" touches on the journey of finding one's voice and identity. This is particularly evident in the line, "I was playing with fire, not feeling the heat," which can be interpreted as a young person's experimentation with danger and risk, not fully understanding or acknowledging the consequences. This recklessness is a part of the search for identity, a common theme in U2's work, especially in "Songs of Innocence," which largely reflects on the band's formative years.

The song's lyrics also reflect a sense of nostalgia and reflection. References to the band's early influences, such as Joe Strummer and The Clash, connect the song to U2's musical roots and their journey as artists. This aspect of the song links personal growth and transformation to the wider context of their musical journey and influences.

Lyrics


Punk rock party in a suburban home
Everybody’s famous here but nobody’s known
We got no music ‘cause the speaker’s blown apart

The spirit’s moving through a seaside town
I’m born again to the latest sound
New wave airwaves swirling around my heart

You no longer got a hold on me
I’m out of Lucifer’s hands
You no longer got a hold on me
You’re no longer in control of me
I am

The NME is spitting from an inky page
St. John the Divine is gonna take the stage
Like a talent show where your talent is your rage
I’m in

Prayers of fire on a raindog night
Young men see visions beyond sound or sight
The Velvets beginning to see the light
Amen

You no longer got a hold on me
I’m out of Lucifer’s hands
You no longer got a hold on me
You’re no longer in control of me
I am

Yes, I can change the world
Yes, I can change the world
The poor breaking bread
That’s made out of stone
The rich man won’t eat
He’s eating alone
That’s easy
But I can’t change the world in me

You no longer got a hold on me
I’m out of Lucifer’s hands
You no longer got a hold on me
You’re no longer in control of me
I am

Check out Song for Someone, also from Songs of Innocence.


4 comments:

Anonymous said...

pretty sweet song.

2BADMOFO said...

Life begins with the first glance
The first kiss at the first dance
All of us are wondering why we're here
In the crystal ballroom underneath the chandelier

Wet the glass until the glasses sing
We punish our hearts till the heart bells ring
Cos where we come from we're not always kind
The human soul is what love leaves behind

We're the ghosts of love and we haunt this place
We're the ghosts of love in every face
In the ballroom of the crystal light
Everyone is here with me tonight
Everyone but you

Our first chance, is their last dance
Our life is shaped by another's hands
Buttoning unbuttoning a coco dress
Stopping and unstopping every cold caress

Born for bliss, born for this
Every human life begins with a kiss
Kissed by every kind of possibility
And everyone is here tonight with me

We're the ghosts of love and we haunt this place
We're the ghosts of love in every face
In the ballroom of the crystal lights
Everyone is here with me tonight

Everyone but you
Everyone but you

Anonymous said...

Do you think this is an allegory between U2 finding its voice and the coming of the spirit to the disciples at pentecost?

We got no music cause the speakers blown (Jesus has left)

St John Devine is going to take the stage

Spirit moving through a seaside town

Very clever and true to how U2 perceive their work as inspired by the spirit.

Anonymous said...

This body of work was inspired by U2's childhood experiences - no spirits there. Other than good spirits ;)