October is one of my favorite U2 albums, and "Fire" one of my favorite songs. Each song on October has the same dark and gritty feel to it. I love it because their youth is so clearly evident in the earlier lyrics. If you compare this song to one of U2's newer ones, it's clear to see how much they have grown and evolved since then. "Fire" was written at a confusing time for U2. Bono (and the rest of the band for that matter) was at a crossroads regarding religion and spirituality.
Bono was deeply concerned that his love for his music would be his downfall. He was at a point where he'd become deeply religious but he didn't want to give up his love affair with rock music either. He wondered if being a part in U2 would somehow go against the religion he'd become so involved in. I think this song reflects the conflict he felt in the early 80's when he was just coming into his own. "Fire" refers to him intensely wondering if by carrying on this rock and roll lifestyle, if his ultimate fate would be to end up in the fiery depths of hell. I have no doubt this song is about Hell in and of itself. He wonders if the life he is choosing is just hell trying to pull him under.
October is one of my favorite U2 albums, and "Fire" one of my favorite songs. Each song on October has the same dark and gritty feel to it. I love it because their youth is so clearly evident in the earlier lyrics. If you compare this song to one of U2's newer ones, it's clear to see how much they have grown and evolved since then. "Fire" was written at a confusing time for U2. Bono (and the rest of the band for that matter) was at a crossroads regarding religion and spirituality.
Bono was deeply concerned that his love for his music would be his downfall. He was at a point where he'd become deeply religious but he didn't want to give up his love affair with rock music either. He wondered if being a part in U2 would somehow go against the religion he'd become so involved in. I think this song reflects the conflict he felt in the early 80's when he was just coming into his own. "Fire" refers to him intensely wondering if by carrying on this rock and roll lifestyle, if his ultimate fate would be to end up in the fiery depths of hell. I have no doubt this song is about Hell in and of itself. He wonders if the life he is choosing is just hell trying to pull him under.