Fall On Me

R.E.M.'s song 'Fall On Me' is a poignant commentary on environmental degradation and the consequences of human actions on nature. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that convey a sense of urgency and concern for the planet. The recurring line 'Don't fall on me' serves as a plea to the sky, symbolizing the natural world, to not collapse under the weight of human exploitation and neglect. The imagery of 'feathers iron' and 'bargain buildings weights and pullies' juxtaposes the lightness of nature with the heavy, industrial impact of human progress, highlighting the imbalance and the impending danger if this continues unchecked.

The song also critiques the commodification of nature, as seen in the lines 'Buy the sky and sell the sky.' This reflects the capitalist mindset that views the environment as a resource to be bought and sold, rather than a vital part of our ecosystem that needs protection. The phrase 'bleed the sky' further emphasizes the destructive impact of such exploitation, suggesting that the sky, and by extension the environment, is being drained of its life and vitality.

In the latter part of the song, there's a sense of resignation and a call to action. The lines 'Well I would keep it above / But then it wouldn't be sky anymore' suggest that while we might want to preserve the sky, our actions are causing irreversible changes. The plea to 'lift your arms up to the sky / And ask the sky' is a call for collective responsibility and a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting the environment. R.E.M. uses 'Fall On Me' to blend poetic lyrics with a powerful message, urging listeners to reflect on their impact on the planet and to take action before it's too late.