Meaning of MLK by U2

U2's song "MLK" is a hauntingly beautiful tribute to the civil rights movement leader, Martin Luther King Jr. The overall theme of the song revolves around the power of dreams and the hope for a better tomorrow.One standout lyric in the song is "Sleep tonight, and may your dreams be realized." This lyric speaks to the importance of rest and rejuvenation. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we must find solace in our dreams and aspirations. The theme this lyric helps develop is the notion that, in order to bring about change, we sometimes need to momentarily escape from reality and allow our dreams to guide us towards a better future.Another meaningful lyric in the song is "If the thunder cloud passes rain, so let it rain. Rain down on him." Here, rain symbolizes the challenges and struggles one faces in life. The lyric acknowledges the difficulties that come with fighting for justice and equality and encourages us to embrace those challenges. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the idea that perseverance in the face of adversity is key to achieving meaningful change. It suggests that we should not shy away from the storms that life throws at us, but instead, let them shape us into stronger individuals.The line "So let it be" that appears twice in the song is simple yet profound. It speaks to the surrendering of control and accepting whatever comes our way. This lyric helps develop the theme of acceptance and embracing the unknown. It highlights the importance of adaptability and finding strength in letting go of expectations. By accepting what we cannot change, we can focus our energy on making a positive impact in areas where we can make a difference.The lyric "And may your dreams be realized" has a dual meaning. On one hand, it represents the individual dreams and aspirations of each person. It serves as a reminder that everyone deserves the opportunity to see their dreams come to fruition. On the other hand, it can also be seen as a collective dream for a more just and equal society. This lyric further develops the theme of unity and the power of shared dreams. It emphasizes the need for collective action and coming together to work towards a common goal.Overall, "MLK" is a song that explores various themes tied to the power of dreams, perseverance, acceptance, and unity. Through its simple yet profound lyrics, it encourages listeners to take a moment to reflect on their own dreams and aspire to create positive change. The song serves as a reminder that despite the challenges we may face, we must never lose sight of our shared humanity and the hope for a better tomorrow.