Van Diemen's Land Lyrics

Lyric discussion by Arianrhod 

Cover art for Van Diemen's Land lyrics by U2

Van Diemen's Land. Present Day Tasmania. Song about a man who spoke out against the government, rallied for proper wages and justice. Probably got arrested for inciting to rebellion or something like that. The English liked to send their criminals to Australia, especially to Van Diemen's Land, as there was a Penal Colony at Port Arthur.

The Edge wrote and sings this song, and it's amazing. I love the melancholy of it, but also the hope inherent in this line "But a day will come in this dawning age When an honest man sees an honest wage " It's almost saying "i'm going, but the fight will keep on"