"Hawkmoon 269" Lyrics U2

"Hawkmoon 269" is a compelling track from U2's 1988 album Rattle and Hum, steeped in themes of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. The song draws its inspiration from the city of New Orleans and a wide array of literary influences, including the works of the poet William Blake. The title itself is a nod to the mystical and fantastical elements often present in Blake's poetry, evoking imagery of transcendence and the quest for meaning in the face of despair. 

Lyrically crafted by Bono, the song reflects the tension between the yearning for connection and the pain of separation, a duality that resonates deeply within the human experience. The line "In the desert of the heart" symbolizes emotional desolation, while the persistent refrain of "Hawkmoon" serves as a metaphor for hope and resilience amid turmoil. 

Bono said the song was titled in part as a tribute to writer Sam Shepard, who had released a book entitled Hawk Moon.

Hawkmoon 269 Lyrics by U2:

Like a desert needs rain
Like a town needs a name
I need your love

Like a drifter needs a room
Hawkmoon
I need your love
I need your love

Like a rhythm unbroken
Like drums in the night
Like sweet soul music
Like sunlight
I need your love
I need your love

Like coming home and you don't know where you've been
Like black coffee
Like nicotine
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love

When the night has no end and the day yet to begin
As the room spins around I need your love
I need your love

Like a Phoenix rising needs a holy tree
Like the sweet revenge of a bitter enemy
I need your love
I need your love

Like the heat needs the sun
Like honey on her tongue
Like the muzzle of a gun
Like oxygen

I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love

When the night has no end and the day yet to begin
As the room spins around I need your love

I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love

Like thunder needs rain
Like the preacher needs pain
Like tongues of flame
Like a sweet stain
Like a needle needs a vein
Like someone to blame
Like a thought unchained
Like a runaway train
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love
I need your love

Like faith needs a doubt
Heat of love in the heart of it
Like a freeway out
Heat of love in the heart of it
I need your love
Heat of love in the heart of it
Like powder needs a spark
Heat of love in the heart of it
Like lies need the dark
Heat of love in the heart of it
I need your love
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love in the heart of it
Heat of love


The Edge's atmospheric guitar work enhances this emotional landscape, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that envelops the listener and underscores the lyrical depth. The track's rhythmic cadence and soaring melodies encapsulate the struggle of navigating the complexities of relationships and the search for belonging. Furthermore, "Hawkmoon 269" embodies U2's broader exploration of spiritual themes, reflecting a longing for redemption and the desire to rise above the challenges of life. 

By channeling these themes through powerful imagery and evocative instrumentation, U2 crafts a poignant anthem that invites listeners to contemplate their own journeys of love and loss, making "Hawkmoon 269" a deeply resonant piece in their discography.

Is it true U2 did 269 takes of the song?

U2's "Hawkmoon 269" underwent an extensive recording process, requiring a remarkable 269 takes before the band was satisfied with the final version. This extraordinary effort highlights U2's unwavering commitment to their craft and their relentless pursuit of perfection, particularly during the sessions for Rattle and Hum. 

The song's intricate layers and profound emotional resonance demanded meticulous attention, resulting in a recording that beautifully captures its lyrical intensity and the atmospheric sound characteristic of U2's work during that era.