"Trash, Trampoline And The Party Girl" Lyrics U2

"Trash, Trampoline and the Party Girl" by U2 uses playful, mysterious characters to explore themes of identity, desire, and self-discovery. The lyrics introduce "Party Girl," a figure who, despite her name, seems to yearn for something more meaningful than just fleeting moments of fun. Her enigmatic nature—"she won’t tell me her name"—adds a sense of intrigue and elusiveness, as though her identity is only partially defined by the parties and social scenes she frequents. In contrast, “Trash” and “Trampoline” are characters who exude energy and spontaneity, but they too seem to be seeking something more profound beneath the surface of their carefree personas. Bono's line about having "a heart that’s beating inside" and recalling his own youthful self-centeredness touches on a deeper reflection of maturity and growth. This acknowledgment that "the world [doesn't] revolve around me" suggests a coming-of-age perspective, as the characters grapple with balancing the immediacy of pleasure with a search for meaning. The song, with its whimsical tone, encapsulates the universal tension between the lighthearted pursuit of fun and the deeper human need for connection and purpose.

"Trash, Trampoline And The Party Girl" Song Lyrics by U2

"Party Girl" became a regular of the War Tour encores. This happened despite the fact that after the initial performance, Bono stated "that is the first and probably last time we play that song." It continued to be a regular for the next couple of tours (earning an inclusion on the extremely popularlive album Under a Blood Red Sky and the concert film Live at Red Rocks: Under a Blood Red Sky) and has appeared sporadically at U2 concerts since then, usually for special occasions such as the birthday of a band member.

Party Girl Lyrics:

I know a girl
A girl called Party, Party Girl
I know she wants more than a party, Party Girl
And she won't tell me her name

I know a boy
A boy called Trash, Trash Can
I know he does all that he can, wham bam
And he won't tell me his name

I have a heart
A heart that's beating inside
When I was three
I thought the world revolved around me
I was wrong
And so I sing along
And if you dance
Then dance with me

I know a girl
A girl called Party, Party Girl
I know she wants more than a party, Party Girl
I know a boy
A boy called Trampoline
You know what I mean
I think you know what he wants
I think he knows what he wants
I think he knows what he wants

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"A Celebration" Song Lyrics by U2

"A Celebration," released in 1982 as a non-album single by U2, serves as a vibrant expression of hope and defiance amidst a backdrop of social and political turmoil. The song's infectious energy is encapsulated in the repeated exhortation to "shake, shake," inviting listeners to join in a collective celebration that promises liberation and connection. 

The line "I believe in the celebration / I believe it set me free" reflects a yearning for transcendence, suggesting that communal joy can act as a catalyst for personal and societal change. 

This sentiment resonates deeply, particularly when contrasted with the darker realities expressed in the lyrics, such as references to "the third world war" and "the atomic bomb," which underscore a sense of urgency in confronting the dangers of contemporary life.

The song's imagery evokes a mixture of optimism and realism; while acknowledging the forces at play in the world, including political and social oppression, it ultimately emphasizes resilience. Lines like "the powers that be but they won't overpower me" highlight a spirit of resistance against adversity, a recurring theme in U2's work. 

Furthermore, the mention of specific locations, such as "Christchurch" and "Mountjoy," adds a layer of geographical and cultural significance, rooting the song in a particular context while also reflecting universal struggles for justice and dignity. 

"A Celebration" was a non-album single released by U2 between the October and War albums in 1982. It is probably better known for its B-side, "Trash, Trampoline and the Party Girl" (later shortened to "Party Girl"), which has become a fan favorite throughout the years.

"A Celebration" Song Lyrics by U2

Shake, shake
Go go

I believe in the celebration
I believe it set me free
I believe you can loose these chains
I believe you can dance with me
Dance with me

Shake, shake
Shake, shake

I believe in the third world war
I believe in the atomic bomb
I believe in the powers that be but they won't overpower me
And you can go there too
And you can go, go, go, go

Shake, shake
Shake, shake

We can't stop the tide and everything goes round and round
And we don't have the time to watch the world go tumbling down
Go go

I believe in the bells of Christchurch ringing for this land
I believe in the cells of Mountjoy there is an honest man

And you can go there too
And you can go, go, go, go
And you

I believe in the walls of Jericho
Can go there too
I believe they're coming down
I believe in this city's children
And you
I believe the trumpet's sound
Can go, go, go, go
And you can go there too
And you can go, go, go, go
And you
I believe in what I'm doing
Can go there too

Check out Party Girl lyrics from the same release.

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"11 O'Clock Tick Tock" Lyrics U2

"11 O'Clock Tick Tock" Lyrics U2

U2's third non-album single was produced by producer Martin Hannett, who was more famous for his work with Joy Division, a band influential on U2. The band first met Hannett while he was producing "Love Will Tear Us Apart" with Joy Division. "11 O'Clock Tick Tock" debuted live in August 1979 with alternate lyrics and was then known as "Silver Lining." It evolved into "11 O'Clock Tick Tock" and was finally committed to vinyl.

11 O'Clock Tick Tock Lyrics:

It's cold outside, it gets so hot in here

The boys and girls collide to the music in my ear
I hear the children crying and I know it's time to go
I hear the children crying, take me home

A painted face and I know we haven't long
We thought that we had the answers, it was the questions we had wrong
I hear the children crying and I know it's time to go
I hear the children crying, take me home

Sad song sad song
Sad song sad song
Sad song sad song
Sad song sad song

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"Cedars Of Lebanon" Song Lyrics by U2

"The Cedars of Lebanon," the closing track on No Line on the Horizon, stands as one of U2’s most introspective and world-weary lyrical works.

Sung from the perspective of a jaded war correspondent, the song is a meditation on the emotional and moral exhaustion that comes from witnessing conflict, separation, and humanity’s inability to reconcile its divisions.

Bono’s narrator, having spent years compressing the complexities of life into the sterility of news reports, is left disillusioned, caught in a landscape where violence and beauty coexist in unnerving proximity.

Lines like "This shitty world sometimes produces a rose" encapsulate the painful contradiction:

fleeting moments of grace arise amid the brutality of war, only to dissipate without leaving a lasting imprint. The song resonates as a reflection on desensitization—the rose’s scent, once savored, is now lost, just as the journalist’s emotional compass is blunted by the daily grind of reporting human suffering.

Thematically, "Cedars of Lebanon" is akin to both "Moment of Surrender" and "White as Snow."

In "Moment of Surrender," the speaker's personal crisis mirrors the war correspondent’s weariness, though it takes place in a spiritual realm—trading headlines for a soul’s reckoning. Both songs wrestle with the fallout of detachment: the former contemplates a surrender to life's chaos, while the latter wonders what is left after a life of exposure to violence and strife.

Meanwhile, "White as Snow" tells the story of a dying soldier in Afghanistan, offering a mournful reflection on death and isolation.

Together, these songs form a thematic triad that delves into the personal toll of conflict, each from different vantage points.

In "Cedars of Lebanon," the journalist is numbed by his need to simplify human suffering for mass consumption, while in the other tracks, the protagonists grapple with the internal, existential repercussions of living in a world that seems perpetually at war. The war correspondent's isolation echoes these themes, a figure stranded between worlds, writing from the front lines yet increasingly estranged from his own humanity.

Bono is probably touching on the Cedar Revolution. It may also be referencing the book of Isaiah from the Bible.

"Cedars Of Lebanon" Song Lyrics by U2

Yesterday I spent asleep
Woke up in my clothes in a dirty heap
Spent the night trying to make a deadline
Squeezing complicated lives into a simple headline

I have your face here in an old Polaroid
Tidying the children's clothes and toys
You're smiling back at me
I took the photo from the fridge
Can't remember what then we did

I haven't been with a woman, it feels like for years
Thought of you the whole time, your salty tears
This shitty world sometimes produces a rose
The scent of it lingers and then it just goes

Return the call to home

The worst of us are a long drawn out confession
The best of us are geniuses of compression
You say you're not going to leave the truth alone
I'm here 'cause I don't want to go home

Child drinking dirty water from the river bank
Soldier brings oranges he got out from a tank
I'm waiting on the waiter, he's taking a while to come
Watching the sun go down on Lebanon

Return the call to home

Now I've got a head like a lit cigarette
Unholy clouds reflecting in a minaret
You're so high above me, higher than everyone
Where are you in the cedars of Lebanon

Choose your enemies carefully 'cause they will define you
Make them interesting 'cause in some ways they will mind you
They're not there in the beginning but when your story ends
Gonna last with you longer than your friends

-

U2's career has long been marked by reflections on war, with several iconic tracks tackling the theme from different perspectives. "Sunday Bloody Sunday," perhaps the band’s most famous protest song, confronts the violence of the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre in Northern Ireland. 

Its biting lyrics, “How long must we sing this song?” resonate as a demand for peace in the face of cyclical bloodshed, while the martial drumbeats evoke the ever-present threat of conflict. In "Bullet the Blue Sky," from The Joshua Tree, Bono shifts focus to U.S. intervention in Central America, painting a grim picture of imperialistic violence. The lines "Jacob wrestled the angel, and the angel was overcome" frame war as a theological battle between justice and exploitation, reflecting the band’s critique of unchecked power.

From a more intimate lens, "Mothers of the Disappeared" reflects on the suffering caused by the forced disappearances in Argentina and Chile during the military dictatorships of the 1970s and 1980s. The song mourns the loss and anguish of the families left behind, offering a haunting, subdued reflection on the personal toll of political violence. Another powerful meditation on war is found in "Love and Peace or Else," from How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, where the lyrics wrestle with the contradictions of advocating for peace in a world addicted to violence. 

Bono’s repeated plea, "Lay down your guns," echoes U2’s enduring message: that true liberation cannot be achieved through conflict, but rather through reconciliation and understanding. Each of these songs underscores the band’s deep engagement with war—not merely as a political phenomenon, but as a human tragedy that ripples through individual lives and entire generations.

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"Breathe" Song Lyrics by U2

Breathe, from U2’s No Line on the Horizon, is a lyrical tour de force—a visceral blend of existential defiance and redemptive possibility. At its core, the song is a battle between suffocation and liberation, as Bono’s protagonist grapples with inner turmoil and the weight of a chaotic world. The opening lines, "Sixteen of June, nine-oh-five, doorbell rings," situate the listener in a moment of personal reckoning. T

The reference to historical time grounds the song in something tangible, but the specifics—time, place—soon dissolve into something more universal. Bono’s wordplay reflects a frantic mental state, but it’s not just disorientation.

 There’s a drive toward clarity, reflected in his demand to "just breathe," a fundamental act that becomes symbolic of survival and renewal. This isn’t merely about overcoming adversity; it's about transcending it through an embrace of the present moment, even when everything is unraveling.

Throughout the album, themes of struggle and perseverance recur, offering a kind of lyrical throughline between songs like Moment of Surrender and Unknown Caller. 

In Moment of Surrender, surrender is an act of spiritual catharsis, but in Breathe, the act of defiance is more immediate, a matter of survival in the here and now. Unknown Caller similarly deals with the search for meaning amidst confusion, but where that track reaches outward for guidance, Breathe is a command to find internal strength, to push through the storm with grit and self-determination.

"Breathe" Song Lyrics by U2

16th of June, nine-oh-five, door bell rings
Man at the door says if I want to stay alive a bit longer
There's a few things I need you to know
Three

Coming from a long line of
Traveling sales people on my mother's side
I wasn't gonna buy just anyone's cockatoo
So why would I invite a complete stranger into my home
Would you

These days are better than that
These days are better than that

Every day I die again, and again I'm reborn
Every day I have to find the courage
To walk out into the street
With arms out
Got a love you can't defeat
Neither down nor out
There's nothing you have that I need
I can breathe
Breathe now

16th of June, Chinese stocks are going up
And I'm coming down with some new Asian virus
Ju Ju man, Ju Ju man
Doc says you're fine, or dying
Please
Nine-oh-nine, St. John Divine on the line, my pulse is fine
But I'm running down the road like loose electricity
While the band in my head plays a striptease

The roar that lies on the other side of silence
The forest fire that is fear so deny it

Walk out into the street
Sing your heart out
The people we meet
Will not be drowned out
There's nothing you have that I need
I can breathe
Breathe now
Yeah, yeah

We are people borne of sound
The songs are in our eyes
Gonna wear them like a crown

Walk out, into the sunburst street
Sing your heart out, sing my heart out
I've found grace inside a sound
I found grace, it's all that I found
And I can breathe
Breathe now

-

The reference to "16th of June" in"Breathe" is a deliberate nod to Bloomsday, the day on which James Joyce's Ulysses is set. By invoking June 16th, Bono connects the song’s themes of personal struggle and existential reflection to Joyce’s exploration of the ordinary and the profound in everyday life. This literary allusion positions the protagonist of "Breathe" as a modern-day counterpart to Leopold Bloom, navigating the chaos of the world while seeking meaning and redemption in the mundane.

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"White As Snow" Song Lyrics by U2

The lyrics to White As Snow reflect Bono's imagining of a dying soldier based in Afghanistan. After watching Sam Mendes's Iraq war film, Jarhead, Bono decided the song should evoke the thoughts of a soldier dying from a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. 

For a band known for its political views, the song is arguably the only one from the No Line on the Horizon album that is based on politics (or rather the fall out from war). Winter is a companion song, written at the same time, it was used in the Jim Sheridan movie of the same name.

U2’s “White As Snow” is a poignant exploration of innocence lost, steeped in rich imagery and emotional depth. The song opens with a stark contrast between the vast expanses of an unremarkable landscape and the yearning for something more profound. 

Bono reflects on his origins, describing a flat land where “there were no hills at all,” invoking a sense of monotony and the passage of time marked only by the straight highways of youth. 

The nostalgic reminiscence of driving with his brother symbolizes a simpler, more innocent time, where hours felt endless and life was an uncharted journey. The pale faces “as pale as the dirty snow” serve as a metaphor for the sullied innocence of childhood, suggesting that the purity once perceived is now tainted by experience and reality.

As the narrative unfolds, the lyrics plunge into the complexities of love, forgiveness, and the human condition. The line “Once I knew there was a love divine” evokes a moment of clarity and grace, followed by disillusionment in “then came a time I thought it knew me not.” This sharp transition mirrors a universal struggle with faith and connection, where the sacred is questioned and the search for meaning becomes fraught with uncertainty.

The song's melody is based on an old hymn, Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel

White as Snow Lyrics:

Where I came from there were no hills at all
The land was flat, the highway straight and wide
My brother and I would drive for hours
Like we had years instead of days
Our faces as pale as the dirty snow

Once I knew there was a love divine
Then came a time I thought it knew me not
Who can forgive forgiveness where forgiveness is not
Only the lamb as white as snow

And the water, it was icy
As it washed over me
And the moon shone above me

Now this dry ground, it bears no fruit at all
Only poppies laugh under the crescent moon
The road refuses strangers
The land, the seeds we sow
Where might we find the lamb as white as snow

As boys we would go hunting in the woods
To sleep the night shooting out the stars
Now the wolves are every passing stranger
Every face we cannot know
If only a heart could be as white as snow
If only a heart could be as white as snow

Check out more lyrics from Ireland's finest: No Line on the Horizon.

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"FEZ - Being Born" song lyrics by U2

In Fez - Being Born, Bono and The Edge construct a journey that is less concerned with linearity and more with the collision of personal transformation and the weight of worldly events. The song unravels in fragmented imagery, contrasting fleeting experiences of life against the heavy responsibility of self-awareness and global citizenship. 

"Let me in the sound," a nod to Get On Your Boots, encapsulates a yearning not just for artistic immersion, but for a deeper connection to the chaotic forces shaping the world. The surreal and disjointed language of the first half, "Fez," mirrors the sensory overload of navigating through a world drenched in conflict, movement, and the friction between tradition and modernity. 

There's a disorientation as if Bono is processing a flood of impressions, possibly influenced by U2’s travels in Morocco, a place where the ancient and the contemporary coexist in perpetual motion. In these lines, he’s not just wandering geographically, but existentially, grappling with what it means to be awake to the world's complexities.

Bono says the character in the song 'is a bit AWOL'. He takes a road trip, who just takes off to rediscover who he is and to refind who he is. In my head the traffic cop is from Morroco, he is certainly African French, he heads down through France, through Spain towards Cadiz..,this character feels like he has abandoned everything in order to reconnect with his first love, driven by this sense of danger and memory.

As the song transitions into its second half, "Being Born," there is a shift in tone and urgency. The personal, introspective journey becomes a metaphor for a larger rebirth—a call to action tinged with the weight of expectation and self-reckoning. 

Bono’s lyrics evoke a sense of rebirth as both a liberation and a burden: 

"Head first then foot, then heart sets sail," suggests the painful but inevitable march toward awareness and action. This is where the duality of Bono's public persona—rock star and activist—comes into focus. Much like Stand Up Comedy, there’s an implicit critique of Bono’s own hubris in these lines, a reflection on how far one can go before they become a caricature of their ideals. 

"FEZ - Being Born" song lyrics by U2 Let me in the sound

Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound

Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound

Oh oh oh oh

Six o'clock
On the autoroute
Burning rubber, burning chrome
Bay of Cadiz and ferry home
Atlantic sea, cut glass
African sun at last

Oh oh oh oh

Lights flash past
Like memories
A speeding head, a speeding heart
I'm being born, a bleeding start
The mortal engines roar, blood-curdling wail
Head first, then foot
Then heart sets sail

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"Get On Your Boots" Song Lyrics by U2

Get On Your Boots was the lead single off No Line on the Horizon, perhaps an odd first single release, it grew on many listeners with a few listeners. It's kind of like a crazy cousin on Beautiful Day from the Achtung Baby side of the family. 

The lyrics are supposedly written from the perspective of a man writing to his first love as he relates how he is taking his family to a fairground in Nice, France at the beginning of the Iraq War. Bono also references the wider spectre of war and perhaps knowingly says he doesn't want to talk about war but saying that he actually is.

The lyrics pulse with a sense of immediacy, urging listeners to confront their realities and take a stand. The opening lines beckon an awakening, where the phrase “get on your boots” acts as both a literal and metaphorical summons—an invitation to rise from apathy and engage with the world, no matter how challenging it may be. The mention of a “bad faith” and references to the mundane, such as “the last of the outlaw” and the “darkness” that follows, alludes to a world grappling with moral and spiritual crises. 

As the song progresses, the lyrics pivot towards themes of community, love, and the importance of recognizing one’s inherent beauty. 

Lines like “You don’t know how beautiful you are” reinforce a sense of collective affirmation, urging listeners to appreciate their worth amid chaos and uncertainty. The interplay of whimsical imagery, such as “candy floss, ice cream,” contrasts with deeper reflections on societal struggles, highlighted by the acknowledgment of “wars between nations” and “growing up.” In this context, Bono articulates a yearning for connection, a desire to move beyond the superficial and engage with the profound. 

The repeated call to “let me in the sound” serves as both a plea for understanding and a metaphorical gateway to a shared experience, reinforcing the notion that through laughter and love, joy becomes an eternal pursuit. 

"Get On Your Boots" Song Lyrics by U2

The future needs a big kiss
Winds blow with a twist
Never seen a moon like this
Can you see it too

Night is falling everywhere
Rockets at the fun fair
Satan loves a bomb scare
But he won't scare you

Hey, sexy boots
Get on your boots, yeah

You free me from the dark dream
Candy floss, ice cream
All our kids are screaming
But the ghosts aren't real

Here's where we gotta be
Love and community
Laughter is eternity
If joy is real

You don't know how beautiful
You don't know how beautiful you are
You don't know and you don't get it, do you
No, you don't know how beautiful
You don't know
You don't know how beautiful you are

That's someone's stuff they're blowing up
We're into growing up
Women of the future
Hold the big revelations

I got a submarine
You got gasoline
I don't want to talk about
Wars between nations

Not right now
Hey sexy boots, yeah
No, no, no
Get on your boots, yeah
Not right now
Bossy boots

You don't know how beautiful
You don't know how beautiful you are
You don't know and you don't get it, do you
No, you don't know how beautiful
You don't know
You don't know how beautiful you are

Sexy boots
I don't want to talk about
The wars between the nations
Sexy boots, yeah

Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound

Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound, now
God, I'm going down
I don't wanna drown now
Meet me in the sound

Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Let me in the sound, sound
Meet me in the sound

Get on your boots
Get on your boots
Get on your boots
Yeah hey hey
Get on your boots
Yeah hey hey
Get on your boots
Yeah hey hey
Get on your boots
Yeah hey hey

-

When U2 released “Get On Your Boots” as the lead single from No Line on the Horizon, many critics and fans alike viewed it as an unconventional choice. The song’s frenetic energy and eclectic mix of whimsical imagery contrasted sharply with the more introspective and atmospheric tones that characterized much of U2's earlier work. T

Upon its release, the track received a mixed reception; while some praised its infectious beat and rallying call to action, others found it jarring and less cohesive than previous singles like “Beautiful Day” or “Vertigo.” Despite the divided opinions, the song managed to achieve commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and ultimately becoming a staple in U2's live performances. The dichotomy between its upbeat tempo and provocative lyrics encapsulated the band’s willingness to push boundaries, setting the stage for the varied responses that No Line on the Horizon would evoke.

Other songs from No Line on the Horizon that refer to the theatre of war include White as Snow and Cedars of Lebanon.

The refrain 'let me in the sound' is also referenced in 'Fez Being Born'.

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"Stand Up Comedy" Song Lyrics by U2

On "Stand Up Comedy," U2’s Bono tackles his own celebrity and activism with a sharp edge of self-awareness and satirical bite, flipping the usual narrative of the rock star as savior on its head. The song's lyrics unravel the paradox of someone in a position of global influence, grappling with the weight of their own ego and the ethical complexity of wielding that power. 

Lines like “Stand up to rock stars” and “Beware of small men with big ideas” punch through the veneer of heroism often projected onto figures like Bono himself. There’s a biting irony here: Bono, often viewed as a moral figurehead in the fight against poverty, is reminding himself—and us—of the dangers of inflated self-importance. 

He mocks his own idealism while acknowledging its necessity, caught in the tension between wanting to change the world and the self-righteousness that can creep into such efforts.

This isn’t Bono preaching salvation from a pedestal, but rather tearing down the illusion of grandeur and inviting others to do the same. His lyrics point inward, confronting personal hypocrisy, a theme he introduces with visceral language. 

Phrases like “Stop helping God across the road like a little old lady” subvert the notion of divine duty, suggesting that Bono’s activism—though well-intentioned—sometimes flirts with hubris. The song’s core, however, is not just self-critique but a broader warning against messianic figures, urging listeners to reject blind adulation and, instead, question the motivations of any leader with “big ideas.” 

This is Bono taking his stand—not as a rock star, but as a flawed human, wary of the traps that fame and righteousness lay in the path of genuine progress.

"Stand Up Comedy" Song Lyrics by U2

Love love love love love
Love love love love love

I got to stand up and take a step
You and I have been asleep for hours
I got to stand up
The wire is stretched
In between our two towers
Stand up in this dizzy world
Where a lovesick eye can steal the view
I'm gonna fall down if I can't stand up
For your love

Love love love love love

Stand up, this is comedy
The DNA lotto may have left you smart
But can you stand up to beauty
Dictator of the heart
I can stand up for hope, faith, love
But while I'm getting over certainty
Stop helping God across the road
Like a little old lady

Oh, oh
Out from under your beds
C'mon, ye people
Stand up for your love

Love love love love love
Love love love love love

I gotta stand up to ego
But my ego's not really the enemy
It's like a small child
Crossing an eight lane highway
On a voyage of discovery

Stand up to rock stars
Napolean is in high heels
Josephine, be careful
Of small men with big ideas

Oh, oh
Out from under your beds
C'mon, ye people
Stand up for your love

Love love love love love
Love love love love love

God is love
And love is evolution's very best day

Soul rockin' people moving on
Soul rockin' people on and on
C'mon, ye people
We're made of stars
C'mon, ye people
Stand up then sit down for your love

Love love love love love
Love love love love love
Love love love love love
Love love love love love

More NLOTH Song Lyrics

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"I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight" Song Lyrics by U2

In “I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight,” U2 crafts a poignant narrative that encapsulates a struggle with existential dread and a desperate search for meaning amid chaos. Bono’s lyrics deftly explore themes of disillusionment, where the protagonist grapples with the weight of societal pressures and personal crises. 

Lines such as “You can’t be afraid of what people will say” underscore the conflict between authenticity and the expectations imposed by the outside world. The recurring assertion of going “crazy” reflects a profound frustration, as the character stands at a crossroads, feeling the encroaching madness of modern life. 

The phrase “I’m not a real man” echoes a vulnerability that resonates deeply, revealing an inner turmoil that many face but seldom articulate. 

The imagery throughout the lyrics is vivid and evocative, bringing to life the inner workings of a troubled mind. Phrases like “the only thing I can’t do is go home” and “if you’re lost you can look and you will find me” indicate a longing for solace and clarity in a world that feels increasingly isolating. Bono juxtaposes the frantic pursuit of connection with the stark realization that true peace may remain elusive, creating a tension that propels the song forward. 

The existential crisis unfolds against a backdrop of restless energy, perfectly mirroring the pressures of contemporary existence. Ultimately, U2 distills a universal experience into a personal confession, challenging listeners to confront their own uncertainties while recognizing the power of shared struggles. 

"I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight" Lyrics by U2

She's a rainbow and she loves the peaceful life
Knows I'll go crazy if I don't go crazy tonight
There's a part of me in the chaos that's quiet
And there's a part of you that wants me to riot

Everybody needs to cry or needs to spit
Every sweet tooth needs just a little hit
Every beauty needs to go out with an idiot
How can you stand next to the truth and not see it
Oh, a change of heart comes slow

It's not a hill, it's a mountain
As you start out the climb
Do you believe me or are you doubting
We're gonna make it all the way to the light
But I know I'll go crazy if I don't go crazy tonight

Every generation gets a chance to change the world
Pity the nation that won't listen to your boys and girls
'Cause the sweetest melody is the one we haven't heard
Is it true that perfect love drives out all fear
The right to appear ridiculous is something I hold dear
Oh, but a change of heart comes slow

It's not a hill, it's a mountain
As you start out the climb
Listen for me, I'll be shouting
We're gonna make it all the way to the light
But you now I'll go crazy if I don't go crazy tonight

Baby, baby, baby
I know I'm not alone
Baby, baby, baby
I know I'm not alone

Oh oh oh

It's not a hill, it's a mountain
As we start out the climb
Listen for me, I'll be shouting
Shouting to the darkness
Squeeze out sparks of light

You know we're gonna go crazy
You know we'll go crazy
You know we'll go crazy if we don't go crazy tonight

Oh, slowly now
Oh, be slow

Several of the song's lyrics were influenced by Barack Obama's US presidential campaign.Bono stated to Q magazine that the lyrics "[sound] like a T-shirt slogan to me", and also noting that it was No Line on the Horizon's equivalent to All That You Can't Leave Behind's "Beautiful Day".

Check out more No Line on the Horizon Lyrics from U2

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In "Unknown Caller," U2 explores the unsettling relationship between technology and human vulnerability, crafting a narrative that captures the sense of modern disconnection. The lyrics follow a character navigating addiction and isolation while facing a profound crisis of faith. The opening lines convey a feeling of urgency, as the protagonist’s life seems dictated by the constant presence of a smartphone.

Technology, in this context, becomes both a source of connection and a means of alienation, symbolizing the tension between reliance and entrapment. As the song progresses, the character expresses a desire for freedom amid the overwhelming noise of digital distractions. The phrases within the song highlight the struggle to break free, while the character’s “suicidal” thoughts hint at a deep confrontation with mortality, reflecting the fragility of life in a world increasingly shaped by virtual interactions.

Bono has raised this theme before in songs like Babyface from Zooropa and indeed Achtung Baby's  The Fly in which the character suffers from a touch of 'post modern irony' when he receives a knowing phone call from Hell.

Bono has stated the character of this song and Moment of Surrender are the same. 

In this digital age, “Unknown Caller” serves as a stark reminder that while technology offers pathways to connection, it can also ensnare us in cycles of despair. U2's exploration of these themes resonates deeply, transforming the lyrics into a powerful reflection on faith, identity, and the quest for meaning in a world increasingly defined by isolation.

Some listeners have asked what the lyrical reference to 3:33 means. U2 have used this before and it probably refers to the Bible note of Jeremiah 33:3: "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

 U2's lead singer Bono said in an interview with Rolling Stone, "It's known as 'God's telephone number.'" U2 have previously made this reference to 33.3 - check out the background of the cover of All That You Can't Leave Behind.

"Unknown Caller" Song Lyrics by U2

Sunshine, sunshine
Sunshine, sunshine

Oh, oh
Oh, oh

I was lost between the midnight and the dawning
In a place of no consequence or company
3:33 when the numbers fell off the clock face
Speed-dialing with no signal at all

Go, shout it out, rise up
Oh, oh
Escape yourself and gravity
Hear me, cease to speak that I may speak
Shush now
Oh, oh
Force quit and move to trash

I was right there at the top of the bottom
On the edge of the known universe
Where I wanted to be
I had driven to the scene of the accident
And I sat there waiting for me

Restart and re-boot yourself
You're free to go
Oh, oh
Shout for joy if you get the chance
Password, you, enter here, right now

Oh, oh
You know your name so punch it in
Hear me, cease to speak that I may speak
Shush now
Oh, oh
Then don't move or say a thing

Check out more of Bono's NLOTH Lyrics from U2

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"Moment Of Surrender" Song Lyrics by U2

In “Moment of Surrender,” from U2's No Line on the Horizon, Bono offers a profound exploration of vulnerability and spiritual reckoning, casting the listener into a world where the personal and the universal collide. 

The song's lyrics are steeped in a raw honesty that captures a moment of profound realization, as the narrator confronts the stark reality of surrendering to a higher power, whether that be love, fate, or something more transcendent. 

This act of yielding is not portrayed as a defeat but rather as an awakening—a necessary catharsis that acknowledges the weight of both personal struggle and collective human experience. Bono’s evocative phrasing, especially in lines that reflect the tension between hope and despair, resonates deeply, inviting the listener to reflect on their own moments of surrender.

The imagery in the lyrics paints a vivid portrait of both the physical and emotional landscapes traversed during this moment. Bono deftly juxtaposes mundane actions with profound introspection, as seen in references to fleeting human connections and the relentless passage of time. The lyrics create a sense of immediacy; moments are captured in vivid detail, as if frozen in time, amplifying the weight of each realization. 

Phrases that reference the “surrender” become a mantra, encapsulating the universal human condition—our constant grappling with the desire to control our lives against the inevitable currents of change and loss. The song’s refrain echoes this struggle, as Bono lays bare the contradictions of faith and doubt, drawing listeners into a contemplative space where they, too, must consider their own definitions of surrender.

Bono is on record that the character in this song is the same from Unknown Caller and this moment he has dragged his wife into 'drugs and booze'. He breaks down by an ATM and begs God to deliver them. He then receives messages but he can't get a signal. The messages give him instructions, are they his conscience, a crank or God? 

"Moment Of Surrender" Song Lyrics by U2

I tied myself with wire
To let the horses run free
Playing with the fire
Till the fire played with me

The stone was semi-precious
We were barely conscious
Two souls too smart to be
In the realm of certainty
Even on our wedding day

We set ourselves on fire
Oh God, do not deny her
It's not if I believe in love
But if love believes in me
Oh, believe in me

At the moment of surrender
I folded to my knees
I did not notice the passers-by
And they did not notice me

I've been in every black hole
At the altar of the dark star
My body's now a begging bowl
That's begging to get back
Begging to get back to my heart
To the rhythm of my soul
To the rhythm of my unconsciousness
To the rhythm that yearns
To be released from control

I was punching in the numbers
At the ATM machine
I could see in the reflection
A face staring back at me
At the moment of surrender
Of vision over visibility
I did not notice the passers-by
And they did not notice me

I was speeding on the subway
Through the stations of the cross
Every eye looking every other way
Counting down 'til the pain will stop

At the moment of surrender
Of vision of over visibility
I did not notice the passers-by
And they did not notice me

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh

-

U2’s exploration of vulnerability and surrender resonates profoundly across several tracks:

In “All I Want Is You,” Bono articulates a deep yearning for connection, illustrating how profound desire can lead to emotional sacrifice, thereby highlighting the necessity of laying bare one’s soul in pursuit of true intimacy. 

“Until the End of the World” captures the tension between love and betrayal, presenting a dialogue that delves into the inner conflict of surrendering to desire while grappling with the moral weight of one’s choices. 

This duality resonates with the struggles inherent in human relationships, mirroring the themes of introspection found in “Moment of Surrender.” Finally, “The Unforgettable Fire” employs rich imagery to convey a yearning for transcendence, celebrating the fleeting moments that ignite our spirits while acknowledging the fragility of those experiences.

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"Magnificent" song lyrics by U2

Bono noted that the lyrics were influenced by both Cole Porter and Bach, and that the song is about "two lovers holding on to each other and trying to turn their life into worship." Daniel Lanois, one of NLOTH's producers described the song's origins:

 "We wanted to have something euphoric and Bono came up with that little melody. And he loved that melody, and stuck with it. Almost like a fanfare. And then I was involved in the lyrical process on that, because we wanted to talk about sacrifice that one makes for one's medium or one's art. I thought it had for a setting New York in the 50s; looking out a small bedroom window. Maybe a Charlie Parker kind of figure."

Bono's lyrics serve as both a personal manifesto and a universal yearning, encapsulating the relentless pursuit of something greater than oneself. With a tone that oscillates between reverence and vulnerability, the song opens with an acknowledgment of flawed humanity—“I was born to be with you”—suggesting that our very existence is tethered to an intrinsic connection to the divine, a theme that feels both intimate and cosmic. This duality becomes a powerful undercurrent as the song navigates through sonic landscapes created by The Edge’s signature delay-laden guitar riffs, melding the ethereal with the palpable.

In "Magnificent," U2 crafts a sonorous exploration of the interplay between human aspiration and the divine, a theme that resonates throughout their oeuvre but reaches new heights in the context of No Line on the Horizon. Bono's lyrics serve as both a personal manifesto and a universal yearning, encapsulating the relentless pursuit of something greater than oneself. 

U2's Magnificent Lyrics:

Magnificent
Oh, magnificent



I was born
I was born to be with you 

In this space and time

After that and ever after
I haven't had a clue
Only to break rhyme
This foolishness can leave a heart
Black and blue



Only love
Only love can leave such a mark

But only love
Only love can heal such a scar


I was born
I was born to sing for you 

I didn't have a choice
But to lift you up
And sing whatever song you wanted me to
I give you back my voice
From the womb my first cry
It was a joyful noise
Oh, oh

Only love
Only love can leave such a mark

But only love
Only love can heal such a scar


Justified till we die
You and I will magnify

Oh, the magnificent

Magnificent

Only love
Only love can leave such a mark

But only love
Only love unites our hearts



Justified till we die
You and I will magnify
Oh, the magnificent

Magnificent

Magnificent

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'No Line on the Horizon' song lyrics meaning - by U2

The title track from U2's No Line on the Horizon serves as a sonic and thematic centerpiece for the album, encapsulating the band's ongoing exploration of existential themes and spiritual inquiry. Rooted in Larry Mullen Jr.'s innovative drum patterns, the song’s inception showcases the band’s collaborative spirit.

Brian Eno’s adept sampling and manipulation of Mullen's beats allowed the rest of the group to layer their signature sound, creating an ethereal atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrical content. Bono’s evocative lyrics depict a metaphorical landscape where "the sea meets the sky," representing a realm of infinite possibilities—a place where boundaries dissolve and the essence of existence is contemplated.

At its core, the song embodies the theme of infinity, with Bono describing it as inherently optimistic. The imagery of a girl compared to the sea serves as a powerful metaphor for change and unpredictability.

Lines like “One day she's still, the next she swells” evoke the fluid nature of identity and emotions, suggesting that like the ocean, relationships can shift dramatically. The notion of infinity, as articulated through the girl’s perspective, invites listeners to embrace the limitless potential of their own experiences.

The recurring refrain, “No, no line on the horizon,” further emphasizes this theme, symbolizing a lack of boundaries and the continuous search for meaning beyond conventional constraints.

No Line on the Horizon Lyrics:

I know a girl who's like a sea
I watch her changing every day for me
Oh yeah, oh

One day she's still, the next she swells
You can hear the universe in her sea shells
Oh yeah, oh

No, no line on the horizon
No, no line

I know a girl with a hole in her heart
She said infinity's a great place to start
Oh

"Time is irrelevant, it's not linear"
Then she put her tongue in my ear
Oh, oh

No, no line on the horizon
No, no line
No, no line on the horizon
No, no line

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh

The songs in your head are now on my mind
You put me on pause
I try to rewind, love, and replay

Every night I have the same dream
I'm hatching some plot, scheming some scheme
Oh yeah
Oh

I'm a traffic cop, Rue du Marais
The sirens are wailing
But it's me that wants to get away
Oh

No line on the horizon
No, no line
No, no line on the horizon
No, no line

The album No Line on the Horizon is dedicated to Rob Partridge, who signed the U2's first record deal in 1979 and died of cancer in late 2008. 

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"Fast Cars" song lyrics by U2

The lyrics of "Fast Cars" by U2 delve into themes of modern anxiety, societal disconnection, and a yearning for emotional connection amidst overwhelming distractions.

Fast Cars was an extra song included on the end of some versions of U2's How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb. The answer to how one does indeed dismantle an atomic bomb is found in this song, with the answer being, with love.

The opening verses highlight a sense of invasion and surveillance in daily life, with mentions of cell phones, CCTV, and media like CNBC and pornography, all contributing to a culture of constant stimulation and information overload. Bono describes a world where external distractions dominate, but at the core of it, there is a longing for genuine human connection.

The lines "All I want is a picture of you" and "All I want is to get right next to you" convey a deep desire to escape the barrage of noise and find solace in intimacy, symbolized by a personal keepsake—a locket. Yet, there is also an awareness that superficial distractions, like the "fast cars," only exacerbate the inner turmoil and do not lead to fulfillment.

T

he phrase "to dismantle an atomic bomb" serves as a powerful metaphor for deconstructing the destructive elements in both the personal and societal realms. In this context, the bomb can symbolize the emotional and psychological weight the speaker carries, a burden that modern distractions like fast cars, pills, and constant media can't alleviate. The desert imagery evokes isolation and emptiness, suggesting that despite being surrounded by the noise and speed of modern life, the speaker feels a deep sense of disconnection. The attempts to self-medicate or escape through materialism and consumption—represented by fast cars and the stock market—only deepen the alienation.

In the latter half of the song, the lyrics emphasize the contrast between superficial coping mechanisms and the need for genuine connection. The lines "Not used to talking to somebody in the body" hint at the difficulty of engaging authentically in a world where communication often feels disembodied or detached.

The repeated refrain "Don't you worry 'bout your mind" speaks to the internal struggle of maintaining mental peace in a chaotic world. The song reflects a yearning to strip away the false comforts of modern life and reconnect with a simpler, more grounded sense of self and others. The childlike voice mentioned towards the end of the song symbolizes innocence and a lost sense of wonder, overshadowed by the complexities and artificialities of adulthood.

 
An early version of the song was called "Xanax and Wine" which eventually became Picture of You (X+W).

"Fast Cars" Song Lyrics U2

My cell is ringing, no ID
I need to know who's calling
My garden's overgrown
I go out on my belly crawling
I got CCTV, pornography, CNBC
I got the nightly news to get to know the enemy

All I want is a picture of you
All I want is to get right next to you
All I want is your face in the locket
Picture in my pocket
Take a pill to stop it
I know these fast cars will do me no good

I'm going nowhere
Where I am, it is a lot of fun
There in the desert
To dismantle an atomic bomb
I watch you shadow box
Check the stocks, I'm in detox
Want a lot of what you got
What you got can make this stop

All I want is a picture of you
All I want is to get right next to you
All I want is your picture in a locket
Your face in my pocket
Take a pill to stop it
I know these fast cars will do me no good

Child inside
Don't you worry 'bout your mind
Don't you worry 'bout my mind
Don't you worry 'bout your mind
Don't you worry 'bout your mind
You should worry 'bout the day
That the pain, it goes away
You know, I miss mine sometimes

The sides are much too big

There is no fiction
That will truly fit this situation
I'm documenting every detail
Every conversation
Not used to talking to somebody in the body
Somebody in the body
Somebody in the body

Once again, a U2 song features an unknown caller....

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"Yahweh" Song Lyrics by U2

“Yahweh,” from U2's How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb is a deeply spiritual song that encapsulates themes of faith, vulnerability, and the quest for redemption. The lyrics convey a yearning for divine intervention and the desire for transformation, both personally and globally. Bono’s plea to take and remake various elements of his life—shoes, shirts, hands, and hearts—highlights a sense of humility and the recognition of his own imperfections. 

This call for change is both an acknowledgment of human frailty and a hopeful request for growth, as he seeks to rise above his shortcomings and find meaning in the midst of chaos.

The refrain of “Yahweh” serves as a powerful invocation of the name of God in Hebrew, suggesting a deep spiritual connection and a plea for guidance in difficult times. 

The line “Always pain before a child is born” reflects the struggle inherent in creation and renewal, echoing the idea that growth often comes through suffering. The imagery of waiting for dawn symbolizes hope and the belief in eventual enlightenment and clarity. 

As the song progresses, Bono contrasts darkness with light, expressing a longing for change in both the individual and the broader societal context. The desire for a “city shining on the hill” speaks to a vision of a just and equitable world, further emphasizing the theme of hope for a better future. “Yahweh” ultimately emerges as a meditation on the complexities of faith, the necessity of personal transformation, and the hopeful anticipation of light breaking through the darkness.

"Yahweh" Song Lyrics by U2

Take these shoes
Click clacking down some dead end street
Take these shoes and make them fit
Take this shirt
Polyester white trash made in nowhere
Take this shirt and make it clean, clean
Take this soul
Stranded in some skin and bones
Take this soul and make it sing, sing

Yahweh, Yahweh
Always pain before a child is born Yahweh, Yahweh
Still I'm waiting for the dawn

Take these hands
Teach them how to carry
Take these hands, don't make a fist, no
Take this mouth
So quick to criticise
Take this mouth, give it a kiss

Yahweh, Yahweh
Always pain before a child is born
Yahweh, Yahweh
Still I'm waiting for the dawn

Still waiting for the dawn
The sun is coming up
The sun is coming up on the ocean
This love is like a drop in the ocean
This love is like a drop in the ocean

Yahweh, Yahweh
Always pain before a child is born
Yahweh, Yahweh
Why the dark before the dawn

Take this city
A city should be shining on the hill
Take this city if it be your will
What no man can own, no man can take
Take this heart
Take this heart
Take this heart
And make it break

-

U2’s “Yahweh” resonates with several other tracks in the band’s catalog that explore overtly spiritual and Christian themes. One notable example is “I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For,” which captures the ongoing quest for spiritual fulfillment. The song reflects a profound longing for deeper understanding and connection with the divine, emphasizing that the journey toward enlightenment is never truly complete. 

Another compelling track is “Magnificent,” which expresses a yearning for spiritual connection and the transformative power of faith. The lyrics convey a sense of awe and reverence, celebrating the beauty found in devotion and the profound impact that love can have on the soul. Together, these songs reflect U2’s exploration of spirituality, showcasing the band's ability to articulate the intricacies of faith and the human experience through their music.

Finally a song that embodies overtly spiritual themes is “Gloria.” This track expresses a deep yearning for divine connection and worship, capturing the essence of faith through its repetitive and uplifting chorus. The lyrics convey a sense of exuberance and celebration, highlighting the desire to transcend the ordinary and experience a profound relationship with God. Through its energetic instrumentation and passionate delivery, “Gloria” serves as an anthem of devotion, emphasizing the importance of spiritual expression and the transformative power of faith.

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"Original Of The Species" lyrics by U2

"Original of the Species," a standout track from U2’s How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004), showcases the band's lyrical and emotional depth while blending rock anthems with introspective themes. The song, written as a message to the children of U2's band members, particularly to Bono's daughter, addresses themes of personal growth, self-acceptance, and the complexities of adolescence. Bono’s lyrics reflect his observations about the challenges of coming of age, with lines like “I’ll give you everything you want, except the thing that you want” expressing the tension between protection and independence. 

Original of the Species connects to the broader themes of the album, which often grapples with vulnerability, identity, and finding strength in uncertain times. The song's message, cloaked in intimate but universal language, speaks to the beauty and struggle of evolving as a person, capturing both innocence and maturity in its narrative.

In terms of production the song underwent significant evolution during the recording process. Produced by Steve Lillywhite, with additional input from Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, the song reflects U2's careful crafting of sound to match its lyrical message. Initially demoed in a more stripped-down form, the final version grew into a lush arrangement, featuring The Edge’s delicate piano alongside his trademark guitar work, which adds a soaring, expansive quality to the track. Larry Mullen Jr.'s drumming and Adam Clayton's bass provide a steady backbone, allowing Bono's impassioned vocals to take center stage. 

The production's layered sound mirrors the song’s emotional complexity, building from a delicate opening to an explosive climax that underscores the empowerment at the heart of the lyrics. The careful balance of intimacy and grandeur in the production made "Original of the Species" one of the more sonically rich and emotionally resonant songs on How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, further establishing U2's ability to fuse personal storytelling with their iconic anthemic sound.

Lyrics:

Baby slow down
The end is not as fun as the start
Please stay a child somewhere in your heart

I'll give you everything you want
Except the thing that you want
You are the first one of your kind

And you feel like no one before
You steal right under my door
I kneel 'cause I want you some more
I want the lot of what you got
And I want nothing that you're not

Everywhere you go you shout it
You don't have to be shy about it

Some things you shouldn't get too good at
Like smiling, crying and celebrity
Some people got way too much confidence, baby
Baby

I'll give you everything you want
Except the thing that you want
You are the first one of your kind

And you feel like no one before
You steal right under my door
I kneel 'cause I want you some more
I want the lot of what you got
And I want nothing that you're not

Everywhere you go you shout it
You don't have to be shy about it, no
Oh no, oh no no no no no no
Here's the fall

Sugar come on, show your soul
You've been keeping your love under control

Everywhere you go you shout it
You don't have to be shy about it, no
Everywhere you go you shout about it
Oh my my

And you feel like no one before
You steal right under my door
I kneel 'cause I want you some more
I want you some more
I want you some more

Oh no, oh no
Oh no, oh no no no no

Check out the lyrics to All Because Of You and A Man And A Woman

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"One Step Closer" Song Lyrics by U2

"One Step Closer," from U2’s How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb album, is a deeply introspective and emotional song that reflects on themes of loss, uncertainty, and faith. 

The song is often interpreted as a meditation on the process of grief and the struggle to find meaning and hope in the face of death. Written during a period when Bono was grappling with his father’s illness and eventual passing, the song captures the ambiguity of faith and the difficulty of understanding life’s greater purpose when faced with profound sorrow.

The title and repeated phrase "one step closer" suggests a journey, both spiritual and emotional, where the destination is unclear. 

It implies a slow, tentative movement toward peace or understanding, but with an acknowledgment that the way forward is not easy or straightforward. 

The song’s tone is subdued and reflective, evoking a sense of quiet contemplation as the speaker wrestles with questions of faith and doubt. Ultimately, "One Step Closer" resonates as a song about moving through grief, and the gradual process of healing, while recognizing that answers may remain elusive, but the journey itself is a step toward resolution.

"One Step Closer" Song Lyrics by U2

I'm 'round the corner from anything that's real
I'm across the road from hope
I'm under a bridge in a rip tide
That's taken everything I own

One step closer to knowing
One step closer to knowing

I'm on an island at a busy intersection
I can't go forward, I can't turn back
Can't see the future
It's getting away from me
I just watch the tail lights glowing

One step closer to knowing
One step closer to knowing
One step closer to knowing
Knowing, knowing

I'm hanging out to dry
With my old clothes
Finger still red with the prick of an old rose
Well, the heart that hurts
Is a heart that beats
Can you hear the drummer drumming?

One step closer to knowing
One step closer to knowing
One step closer to knowing
To knowing, to knowing
To knowing

What is the Noel Gallager connection to U2's One Step Closer song?

The How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb album liner notes that "One Step Closer" is credited with thanks to Noel Gallagher of Oasis. The song's title originates from a conversation Bono had with Gallagher regarding Bono's dying father, Bob Hewson. Bono asked, "Do you think he believes in God?" to which Gallagher replied, "Well, he's one step closer to knowing."

How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb also featured the hit Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own where the lyrics also reflected on Bono's Dad.

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"Crumbs From Your Table" lyrics U2

Crumbs From Your Table," from U2's U2's How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb album, is a powerful commentary on global inequality and the imbalance between wealth and poverty. The song addresses the stark contrast between the abundance enjoyed by wealthy nations and the desperate needs of impoverished regions, particularly in the context of humanitarian aid and social justice.

 The metaphor of “crumbs from your table” evokes an image of the wealthy offering only small, insignificant portions of their wealth to those who need it most, highlighting the failure of affluent societies to share their resources in a meaningful or equitable way.

Bono, known for his activism in global poverty and debt relief, uses the song to express frustration with the hollow promises of the powerful, who often talk about aid and support but fail to deliver real, impactful change. 

The lyrics suggest that the help provided is often too little and too late, with those in need left to survive on mere leftovers. This song not only critiques the global systems of charity and aid but also poses a moral challenge to the listener, questioning whether they are complicit in perpetuating this cycle of neglect. 

Through its poignant imagery and sharp critique, "Crumbs From Your Table" shines a light on the need for justice, compassion, and a more substantial response to the suffering of the world’s poorest people.

"Crumbs From Your Table" lyrics by U2

From the brightest star
Comes the blackest hole
You had so much to offer
Why did you offer your soul
I was there for you baby
When you needed my help
Would you deny for others
What you demand for yourself

Cool down mama, cool off
Cool down mama, cool off

You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
But I'm waiting on the crumbs from your table

You were pretty as a picture
It was all there to see
Then your face caught up with your psychology
With a mouth full of teeth
You ate all your friends
And you broke every heart
Thinking every heart mends

You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
But I'm waiting on the crumbs from your table

Where you live should not decide
Whether you live or whether you die
Three to a bed
Sister Ann, she said
Dignity passes by

You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
I'm waiting on the crumbs from your table

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