I adore this song. Its a beautifully frank and tender song from son to mum. Some sons grow to regret not being kinder, gentler, more respectful to their mums. Mine died recently at the beautiful age of 85 and we grew more close with each passing year. But when I was a wee lad...I was a little terror to that poor lady. One of the last lines of the song reflects that Pauli may have been too. Imagine hearing your mom say "you'll be the death of me" and seeing her die shortly thereafter. That would inspire some good old fashioned Catholic guilt would it not.
I read a great U2 book years ago that included a vivid description of a senseless argument the two had about appropriate placement for a teacup. Mum was suggesting a sofa side table. Pauli thought a wall shelf was perfectly suited for the occasion. I think it ended in a stalemate and mum unhappily exiting the room.
I recently lost both my young bride and (young at heart) mother (Aileen). One from BC and one from a tired, old heart. The two most influential female voices in my life. I miss them both dearly. The ache is ever present. Two holes in my heart but I relate to this song vividly. They both played significant roles in shaping me to be the man I am today....and more interesting and surprisingly...the man I will be tomorrow. Their words and deeds echo in my psyche and they both whisper wisdom which continues to transform my heart as I raise two young girls alone. Just as Paulis own Dad raised 2 young lads solo.
This song is a gorgeous tribute from son to mum. From his to her and me to mine. It haunts me...I cannot stop listening to it.
I so appreciate the themes, lyrics, music and heart of this band.
What they do is remarkable and I'm grateful for it.
First,
I adore this song. Its a beautifully frank and tender song from son to mum. Some sons grow to regret not being kinder, gentler, more respectful to their mums. Mine died recently at the beautiful age of 85 and we grew more close with each passing year. But when I was a wee lad...I was a little terror to that poor lady. One of the last lines of the song reflects that Pauli may have been too. Imagine hearing your mom say "you'll be the death of me" and seeing her die shortly thereafter. That would inspire some good old fashioned Catholic guilt would it not.
I read a great U2 book years ago that included a vivid description of a senseless argument the two had about appropriate placement for a teacup. Mum was suggesting a sofa side table. Pauli thought a wall shelf was perfectly suited for the occasion. I think it ended in a stalemate and mum unhappily exiting the room.
I recently lost both my young bride and (young at heart) mother (Aileen). One from BC and one from a tired, old heart. The two most influential female voices in my life. I miss them both dearly. The ache is ever present. Two holes in my heart but I relate to this song vividly. They both played significant roles in shaping me to be the man I am today....and more interesting and surprisingly...the man I will be tomorrow. Their words and deeds echo in my psyche and they both whisper wisdom which continues to transform my heart as I raise two young girls alone. Just as Paulis own Dad raised 2 young lads solo.
This song is a gorgeous tribute from son to mum. From his to her and me to mine. It haunts me...I cannot stop listening to it.
I so appreciate the themes, lyrics, music and heart of this band.
What they do is remarkable and I'm grateful for it.
...g