"40" Song Lyrics + Themes by U2
"40," the closing track of U2's 1983 album "War," stands out as a significant departure from the rest of the album's politically charged atmosphere. This song, both in its lyrical content and its placement in the album, serves as a contemplative epilogue, offering a moment of reflective calm after the storm of intense themes explored earlier in the album. The song's title and much of its lyrics are derived from Psalm 40, a text from the Hebrew Bible, which imbues the song with rich spiritual and introspective themes.
At its core, "40" is a song of hope and patience, drawing directly from the Psalm's themes of waiting and deliverance. The lyrics, "I waited patiently for the Lord; He inclined and heard my cry," speak to a universal human experience of seeking solace and understanding in times of trouble. This juxtaposition of patience and an eventual divine response offers a stark contrast to the album's earlier tracks, which are imbued with the immediacy of political and social unrest.
Moreover, the song reflects a deep sense of faith and trust in a higher power, a theme that resonates throughout U2's body of work. This faith is not portrayed as passive but as a source of strength and reassurance. The repeated lines, "He set my feet upon a rock and made my footsteps firm," suggest a transformation or an emergence from a state of instability to one of strength and certainty. This metaphorical rock can be interpreted as a symbol of enduring faith or inner resilience in the face of adversity.
As per the single sleeve above, 40 was released with Two Hearts Beat as One.
40 Lyrics:
I waited patiently for the Lord
He inclined and heard my cry
He brought me up out of the pit
Out of the miry clay
I will sing, sing a new song
I will sing, sing a new song
How long to sing this song
How long to sing this song
How long, how long, how long
How long to sing this song
He set my feet upon a rock
And made my footsteps firm
Many will see
Many will see and hear
I will sing, sing a new song
I will sing, sing a new song
I will sing, sing a new song
I will sing, sing a new song
How long to sing this song
How long to sing this song
How long, how long, how long
How long to sing this song
40 also explores the theme of new beginnings or rebirth. The lines, "I will sing, sing a new song" imply a transition from despair or silence into a state of expression and renewal. This idea of a new song can be interpreted as a metaphor for a new way of living, thinking, or engaging with the world, especially after experiencing hardship or struggle.
In the context of the "War" album, which deals with themes of conflict, division, and the search for peace, "40" serves as a moment of introspection and spiritual reflection. It suggests that amidst the turmoil and strife depicted throughout the album, there remains a space for personal and communal upliftment through faith, patience, and a continual striving for a new and better way.
The song's lasting impact is enhanced by its simplicity and the way it resonates with listeners from diverse backgrounds. Its use of Biblical text, while deeply rooted in Christian tradition, speaks to a broader human experience of seeking meaning, comfort, and hope in challenging times. This universality is a testament to U2's ability to transcend the specific and speak to the collective human experience, making "40" an enduring piece in their discography.
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