Meaning of Closest Thing To Heaven by Tears for Fears

In the world of music, there are certain songs that not only captivate us with their melodies but also leave a lasting impression with their thought-provoking lyrics. Tears for Fears' song, "Closest Thing To Heaven," is one such melody that takes us on a journey of introspection and contemplation. At first listen, the song might seem to be a whimsical love ballad, but upon closer examination, it reveals a tapestry of themes that redefine the meaning of heaven itself.At its core, "Closest Thing To Heaven" explores the concept of finding solace in challenging times. The first verse sets the stage, depicting a world drowning in rain and flooded with hardship. The reference to "bathwater and the baby" symbolizes the struggle to protect what is most precious amidst chaos. It touches on the inner conflict and confusion that arises when faced with adversity. This exploration of personal turmoil becomes the springboard for the wider themes that unfold in the song.The chorus, "Closest thing to heaven, how do you do it?" poses an intriguing question. It invites us to delve deeper into the idea of heaven and question our own perception of it. Each verse plays a vital role in expanding on this question by introducing unexpected and imaginative themes.In the second verse, the line "Throw your arms 'round the world, make love your destination" takes the overarching theme of finding comfort in tough times to a new level. It suggests that love, in all its forms, can act as a beacon of hope in a troubled world. Love becomes the harbinger of heaven, an intangible force that can bring about healing and unity.The lyric, "Give me that ball and chain" presents a contrasting theme. It alludes to the constraints and burdens we willingly carry, whether through relationships or personal choices. This theme of willingly subjecting oneself to limitations raises intriguing questions about the nature of freedom and the significance we attach to the things that weigh us down. It challenges us to reconsider our definition of heaven as a realm devoid of any constraints.Another standout lyric is "Eat the countries that are making billions, sweet as homemade apple pie. Save the crumbs for all the starving millions." This imagery evokes themes of inequality, greed, and the exploitation of resources. It shines a light on the stark contrasts that exist in our world, where abundance coexists with deprivation. It urges us to question our role in perpetuating such inequalities and challenges us to strive for a more just and compassionate society. In this vision, heaven becomes synonymous with a world where wealth is shared equitably and no one goes hungry.As the song progresses, the chorus repeats, emphasizing the desire to understand how this concept of heaven can be achieved in our own lives. The repetition speaks to the human longing for peace, meaning, and a sense of belonging. It highlights the universal quest for a place or state of being that transcends the challenges and limitations we face on Earth.In conclusion, Tears for Fears' "Closest Thing To Heaven" weaves a tapestry of lyrical themes, each painting a vivid and imaginative picture of what heaven could signify. Through exploring the complexities of personal struggle, love, constraints, inequality, and the longing for understanding, the song challenges us to contemplate the true essence of heaven. It encourages us to reflect on our own role in creating a more heavenly world, both within ourselves and in the greater society. Ultimately, the song reminds us that heaven is not a distant realm but a possibility we can manifest in our everyday lives.