Drowning Man by U2

Album: War (1983)

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Songfacts®:

The "Drowning Man" is probably U2 bass player Adam Clayton. While Bono, The Edge, and Larry Mullen were devout Christians, Clayton did not share their faith.
The title is not mentioned in the lyrics. It was taken from a play Bono was writing.
Steve Wickham played the violin. He would later join The Waterboys.
U2 played portions of this song on their 1983 War tour and again on their 2017 Joshua Tree tour, but they never played it live in its entirely.
Bono used a biblical reference in this song:

Like eagles you'll run, you'll run
You'll run and not grow weary

Isaiah 40:31 reads:

They will soar on wings like eagles
They will run and not grow weary >>>
Suggestion credit:
Bill - Johnstown, PA

Comments: 9

David from Woburn, MaOne of the more powerful songs from their first three albums. I always took it for face value as a love song, but now that I read that part of it cites the Bible, I guess there are religious undertones about feeling lost and without God.
Melvin from Pasadena, MdI fell in love with this song the first time I heard it. Many songs have gone in and of my life since then, but this song remains one of my all time favorites. As an avid boater, I sit on my boat in late evening with a cold one and just listen to this song and the sounds of the sea.If you have'nt tried this you should. Talk about relaxation......
Squid from Los Angeles, CaThis was smack in the middle when alcoholism was taking over the bad and adam was partying a lot
Shawn from Frostburg, MdThis is hardcore U2 ( if there is such a thing) If has the "Classic" U2 sound that has yet to be duplicated by any other band. quite a masterpiece in my opinion.
I hope they go full circle and get back to this sound on their next album.
Dan from Atlanta, GaThis song served as a nice bridge to second half of the album. Back in the day, before CDs :), Drowning man was the last song on the first side of the album. The Refugee opened the second side.
Heather from Los Angeles, Cathe electric violin really heartrends this song. i like it very much.
Lily from Godrics Hallow, EnglandI love all their songs but this one, is one of my favs.
Lp from New York, NyActually, this is probably the best song on "War." I love the guitar part after "THis love will last forever..." ... nice.
John from Madison, WiEventhough the War album is dominated by such hits as "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "New Year's Day" this song is a fine song too

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