War
This LP was more political in nature than the two that had gone before, and signalled U2's intention to be a band that was prepared to speak out on major issues. The white flag image of the 'War' era symbolised the LP's peaceful message, while certain songs dealt with some controversial topics. Sunday Bloody Sunday in particular addressed the Northern Ireland situation, but was misinterpreted by some as a republican "rebel song". Hence Bono's intro to the song on Under A Blood Red Sky : "There's been a lot of talk about this next song, maybe maybe too much talk. This song is not a rebel song, this song is Sunday Bloody Sunday."
There were more signs of spiritual and religious influences on 'War'. The lyrics of two songs (Drowning Man and "40") are taken, at least in part, directly from the Bible. Drowning man draws on the words of the book of Isaiah 40:31 - "They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not grow faint". "40" is taken directly from Psalm 40 - "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." (References taken fron New International Version of the Bible) "40" was used for several years as the closing song at U2 concerts, and the words "How long to sing this song?" were echoed each night by fans as they left the show.
FromThree Chords and the truth
Released February 1983
Tracks on the album include:
- SUNDAY BLOODY SUNDAY
- SECONDS
- NEW YEAR'S DAY
- LIKE A SONG
- DROWNING MAN
- THE REFUGEE
- TWO HEARTS BEAT AS ONE
- RED LIGHT
- SURRENDER
- 40
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