Meaning of When Dawn Arrives by Madness

The Madness song titled 'When Dawn Arrives' encapsulates a dark and haunting theme that delves into the life of an individual living on the fringes of society. Through its evocative lyrics, the song explores themes of abuse, control, redemption, and the contemplation of our actions. Each lyric serves as a vivid window into the character's life, providing unique perspectives on these themes.The first verse of the song sets the stage, describing the protagonist hummed in his streets. The repetition of the tune signifies the cyclical and monotonous nature of his existence. The line "A few seconds mumble then whisks him off" suggests how quickly he is whisked away from any sense of security or stability. This lyric highlights the theme of control, as the character is at the mercy of external forces.In the chorus, the lyrics "Sick and tired of abuse" and "Controlled signs of hysteria" capture the deep-seated pain and suffering experienced by the character. The theme of abuse is central to the song, showcasing the harsh realities faced by those who suffer in silence. The controlled signs of hysteria symbolize the character's struggle to maintain composure despite the overwhelming emotional burden they carry.As the song progresses, we are introduced to a range of unexpected and imaginative themes. In the bridge, the lyrics "He cries tonight through his manner" indicate the character's internal conflict and the weight of his conscience. This theme explores the idea of redemption and the character's desire to change his ways. The shadowed leather and the exchange of handshakes for money and pleasure suggest a seedy underworld, representing the character's questionable choices.The second verse delves further into the character's journey, describing him running through his block. The line "No meeting with a mother or greeting a friend" emphasizes the character's isolation and lack of meaningful connections. This theme develops the idea of loneliness and the consequences of a life lived in the shadows.The line "From my dirty window his body's numb" in the third verse illustrates the physical and emotional toll of the character's lifestyle. The filthy window serves as a metaphor for his distorted perspective, further emphasizing his detachment from reality. This theme explores the psychological effects of the character's experiences and the disconnect between his true self and the image he presents.In the outro, the repetition of the chorus lyrics "Sick and tired of abuse" and "Controlled signs of hysteria" reinforces the pervasive nature of the character's struggles. However, the addition of the line "He remembers his leisure" adds a glimmer of hope. This theme suggests that amidst the darkness, there is a possibility for the character to find solace and reclaim aspects of his life that bring him joy.'When Dawn Arrives' is a song that explores the complexities of an individual's existence on the margins of society. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song delves into themes of abuse, control, redemption, and the search for personal fulfillment. Each vividly described moment offers an unexpected and imaginative perspective on these overarching themes, ultimately reminding us of the power of empathy and understanding in the face of adversity.