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The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Lucifer's Hands" by the artist "U2"

U2's "Lucifer's Hands" is an anthem of liberation and spiritual awakening disguised as punk-rock chaos.

The first verse paints a picture of a shallow party, where even "celebrities" seem hollow. The lack of music symbolizes spiritual emptiness and a yearning for something more.

The "force" moving through the seaside town represents an awakening, a new wave of consciousness sweeping over the lyrical protagonist. "New wave" and "radio waves" hint at cultural shifts and ideas that are turning his world upside down.

The chorus is a direct statement of freedom. "Lucifer's hands" metaphorically represent the forces of darkness, oppression, addiction – anything that has held the protagonist captive.

The second verse is full of religious imagery, but it's all turned on its head. The NME, a music magazine, becomes a source of prophecy, while John the Divine appears as a talent show contestant, where it's not holiness but "fury" – passion, lust for life – that is valued.

The "sensual prayers" and visions of young people hint at a search for spirituality outside of dogma and tradition. The mention of The Velvet Underground, pioneers of experimental rock, underlines the song's rebellious spirit.

The third verse addresses the theme of social change. The protagonist recognizes the injustice of a world where the "poor" are forced to make do with little, while the "rich" live in luxury. However, he concludes that true change begins with himself, with inner transformation.

The repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea of liberation and taking control of one's life. The protagonist is no longer a puppet in someone else's hands, he is ready to make his own destiny.

Punk rock party in a suburban home

Everybody's famous here but nobody's known

We got no music, 'cause the speaker's blown

Apart

The spirit is moving through a seaside town

I'm born again to the latest sound

New wave, airwave swimming around my heart

Uh huh

[Chorus:]

You no longer got a hold on me

I'm out of Lucifer's hands

You no longer got a hold on me

You're no longer in control of me

I am

The NME is spitting from an inky page

Saint John Divine is gonna take the stage

At the talent show where your talent is your rage

I'm in

Prayers of fire on a raindog night

Young men see visions beyond sound or sight

The Velvets beginning to see the light

Amen.

[Chorus:]

You no longer got a hold on me

I'm out of Lucifer's hands

You no longer got a hold on me

You're no longer in control of me

I am

Yes, I can change the world

Yes, I can change the world

The poor breaking bread

It's made out of stone

The rich man won't eat

He's eating alone

That's easy

But I can change the world

In me

[Chorus:]

You no longer got a hold on me

I'm out of Lucifer's hands

You no longer got a hold on me

You're no longer in control of me

I am

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