Meaning of The Working Hour (live) [richard Skinner Session 1984] by Tears for Fears

The Tears for Fears song titled "The Working Hour" is a thought-provoking ballad that delves into various themes, prompting listeners to reflect on the complexities and challenges inherent in our lives. The song's overarching theme can be interpreted as the dual nature of work, where we both learn from our mistakes and pay the price for them. Let's embark on an imaginative journey through some standout lyrics to uncover unexpected themes that tie back to the central message of the song.The opening verse hints at transformation and the potential for personal growth. "These things that I've been told can rearrange my world, my doubt, in time, but inside out." This lyric explores the concept of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of external experiences and knowledge in shaping our inner selves. It suggests that learning from mistakes has the power to transform not only our external circumstances but also our internal doubts, leading to personal growth and understanding.Moving into the chorus, we encounter a powerful statement about the working hour and its connection to learning from our mistakes. "This is the working hour, we are paid by those who learn by our mistakes." This lyric poignantly underscores the cyclical nature of work, illustrating how our professional endeavors are intertwined with the lessons we glean from our own missteps. It emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges and viewing them as valuable learning opportunities rather than failures.The second verse engages with the complexities of our contemporary world. "This day and age for all and not for one, all lies and secrets put on, put on and on." Here, the song delves into societal issues, suggesting that the world we live in is filled with misinformation and hidden truths. This lyric explores the theme of deception, highlighting the challenges we face in discerning authenticity and navigating a world seemingly built on falsehoods.Returning to the chorus, we encounter iconic words that echo the recurring theme. "This is the working hour, we are paid by those who learn by our mistakes." This repetition emphasizes the song's central message, reinforcing the idea that our growth and progress are intricately tied to the lessons we learn from our errors. It also suggests a symbiotic relationship between those who recognize the value of these lessons and those who benefit from their newfound wisdom.As the song progresses, we reach the post-chorus, where the concept of fear emerges. "And fear is such a vicious thing, it wraps me up in chains." This line delves into the powerful grip fear can have on our lives, indicating that its presence can restrict our potential and hold us captive. This theme encourages listeners to confront their fears, uncover their sources, and ultimately break free from the chains that inhibit personal and professional growth.In the refrain, the lyrics urge us to explore the nature of this fear. "Find out, find out what this fear is about." This line encourages introspection, inviting us to delve into our fears and uncover their depths. By prompting us to question the roots of our anxieties, the song suggests that understanding our fears can lead to personal liberation, allowing us to confront challenges head-on and embrace the working hour's inherent lessons."The Working Hour" by Tears for Fears encompasses profound and imaginative themes woven into its lyrics. From the transformative power of learning from mistakes to the complexities of our modern society, the song delves into unexpected territories while still circling back to its core theme. It encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences, motivations, and fears, presenting an opportunity for introspection and growth in both personal and professional spheres. So, as you listen to this song, allow its rich and imaginative themes to resonate within you, inviting a deeper understanding of the working hour and the lessons it holds.