Meaning of Seconds by U2

The U2 song titled "Seconds" is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that delves into the themes of time, revolution, and the consequences of human actions. The overall theme of the song can be interpreted as the fleeting nature of time and the urgency with which we must embrace change, as well as the potential destruction that can result from our decisions.One standout lyric from the song is "Lightning flashes across the sky, East to west, do or die, like a thief in the night, see the world by candlelight." This lyric illustrates the idea that change can happen in an instant, like a bolt of lightning, and it is often accompanied by chaos and uncertainty. The reference to seeing the world by candlelight suggests that in times of upheaval, we must rely on the bare essentials, stripping away the excess to truly understand the world around us. This lyric helps develop the theme of sudden and unexpected change and the need for adaptability in tumultuous times.Another standout lyric is "In an apartment on Time Square, you can assemble them anywhere, held to ransom, hell to pay, a revolution every day." This lyric highlights the idea that revolutions and transformative movements can occur in the most unexpected places, such as a simple apartment on Time Square. It suggests that change is not restricted to large-scale events but can be ignited by individuals anywhere. The notion of being "held to ransom" and the "hell to pay" denotes the sacrifices and challenges that come with seeking change. This lyric helps build on the theme of revolution and emphasizes the personal responsibility we all have to contribute to positive transformation.The lyric "It takes a second to say goodbye, push the button and pull the plug, say goodbye" is particularly striking. It suggests that destructive actions, such as warfare or the use of nuclear weapons, can have irreversible consequences that are set in motion with a simple decision. This lyric serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the need for responsible decision-making. It adds weight to the underlying theme of the song, underscoring the urgency to act wisely and avoid hasty, detrimental choices.Building upon the theme of time, revolution, and the consequences of actions, the lyric "And they're doing the