Biko

Simple Minds' song 'Biko' is a powerful tribute to the South African anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, who died in police custody in September 1977. The song opens with a stark reference to the date and place of Biko's death, setting a somber tone that underscores the gravity of the events. The repetition of Biko's name in the chorus serves as a haunting reminder of his sacrifice and the brutal reality of apartheid. The lyrics 'The man is dead' are a blunt acknowledgment of Biko's fate, but they also serve to immortalize his legacy, ensuring that his struggle and martyrdom are not forgotten.

The imagery in the song is vivid and evocative. The line 'When I try to sleep at night, I can only dream in red' suggests a restless conscience and a mind tormented by the violence and bloodshed associated with Biko's death. The contrast between the 'black and white' outside world and the 'one colour dead' highlights the stark racial divisions and the loss of life that apartheid inflicted. This metaphor extends to the broader struggle for justice and equality, emphasizing the enduring impact of Biko's death on the collective consciousness.

The song's message of resistance and hope is encapsulated in the lines 'You can blow out a candle, but you can never blow out a fire.' This metaphor suggests that while Biko's life was extinguished, the movement he inspired continues to grow and gain strength. The repeated call to 'waken up' and 'face up' is a rallying cry for action and awareness, urging listeners to recognize the ongoing struggle for human rights and to take a stand. The song concludes with a reminder that 'the eyes of the world are watching,' reinforcing the idea that global attention and solidarity are crucial in the fight against oppression.