The Message of 40 by U2: An In-depth Analysis

Introduction

When U2 released their album “War” in 1983, it was a landmark moment in their career. The album featured some of their greatest hits like “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” and “New Year’s Day.” However, the final track on the album, “40,” was a departure from the rest of the tracks in both style and substance. On the surface, “40” is a simple song that repeats the refrain “how long to sing this song?” But, when you delve deeper, it is clear that this song has a profound message.

Table of Contents

The Biblical Reference

The title of the track “40” is a direct reference to the 40th Psalm in the Bible. In this Psalm, the author speaks of waiting on the Lord and his faithfulness. The repetition of the line “how long to sing this song?” is a reference to the meaning behind Psalm 40. The author speaks of waiting patiently and in expectation of God’s deliverance, and that is what Bono is trying to convey in this song.

Reflection on U2’s Faith

U2 has never been shy about their faith, and “40” is no exception. With Bono’s telling lyrics, “I’ll sing, sing a new song,” it’s clear that the song points to a deeper faith and trust in God’s faithfulness. The song also serves as a reflection of U2’s spiritual journey, from their early days as a band up until now. For U2, music has always been the perfect medium to express their deepest beliefs, and “40” is a perfect example of that.

How “40” Impacted Pop Culture

Although “40” may not be one of U2’s most popular songs, it has had a profound impact on pop culture. “40” has been covered by many artists, including Coldplay, who have cited U2 as one of their biggest influences. The song has also inspired many other artists and songwriters to explore their faith in their music. Christian musicians such as Switchfoot and DC Talk have cited U2 as a major inspiration for their music and faith.

Conclusion

U2’s “40” has stood the test of time and has become an anthem for the faithful. The song’s message about waiting patiently for God’s deliverance and faithfulness is timeless and universal. As the Bible says, “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles…” U2’s “40” is a reminder of that promise, and its message is as relevant today as it was back in 1983.