"Mothers Of The Disappeared" song lyrics by U2

“Mothers of the Disappeared,” a poignant track from U2’s The Joshua Tree, stands as a heartfelt tribute to the families and victims of political violence, particularly in Latin America during the 1970s and 1980s. The song draws inspiration from the plight of the Madres de Plaza de Mayo, a group of Argentine mothers whose children were forcibly disappeared during the country’s military dictatorship. 

Bono's lyrics evoke a profound sense of grief and longing, as he channels the voices of these mothers searching for their lost children, articulating the universal pain of loss and the enduring hope for justice. Lines like “In the blue of the night” capture both the sorrow and resilience of those left behind, emphasizing the haunting absence of the disappeared and the emotional turmoil that accompanies such tragedies.

U2's "Mothers Of The Disappeared" song lyrics

Midnight, our sons and daughters
Were cut down and taken from us
Hear their heartbeat
We hear their heartbeat

In the wind we hear their laughter
In the rain we see their tears
Hear their heartbeat
We hear their heartbeat

Night hangs like a prisoner
Stretched over black and blue
Hear their heartbeat
We hear their heartbeat

In the trees our sons stand naked
Through the walls our daughters cry
See their tears in the rainfall

Musically, “Mothers of the Disappeared” features an atmospheric soundscape that complements its lyrical depth, combining haunting melodies with a somber yet ethereal quality. The Edge’s use of the guitar creates a shimmering effect, weaving in and out of the song's textures to evoke a sense of yearning and sorrow. 

The song is anchored by a steady rhythm that carries a weight of solemnity, reinforcing the gravity of the subject matter. Bono’s impassioned vocal delivery imbues the track with emotional intensity, reflecting the anguish and hope of those who continue to seek answers. Through its poignant narrative and evocative sound, “Mothers of the Disappeared” stands as a powerful reminder of the human cost of political repression and the unyielding spirit of those who seek justice for their loved ones, solidifying U2's commitment to social issues and their ability to merge personal narratives with global themes.  

Read more Joshua Tree Lyrics, including "Trip Through Your Wires", "One Tree Hill" and "Exit".