Driven To Tears

Sting's song 'Driven To Tears' is a poignant reflection on the overwhelming feelings of helplessness and guilt in the face of global atrocities. The lyrics open with a series of rhetorical questions, challenging the listener to confront their own sense of responsibility. Sting questions the detachment many feel towards distant suffering, asking, 'What does it have to do with me?' This line sets the tone for the song, emphasizing the moral dilemma of witnessing injustice and feeling powerless to effect change.

The chorus, 'Driven to tears,' encapsulates the emotional response to these atrocities. Sting describes a visceral reaction, where shame and sorrow manifest physically, reducing his 'comfortable existence' to something 'shallow' and 'meaningless.' This stark contrast highlights the disparity between the privileged lives of some and the dire circumstances of others. The imagery of hiding one's face in hands and the mention of 'too many cameras and not enough food' critique the media's role in commodifying suffering, turning real human tragedies into mere headlines.

In the final verse, Sting expresses a sense of futility in protest, lamenting that 'nothing seems to get through.' This line underscores the frustration and despair felt by those who wish to make a difference but feel their efforts are in vain. The song ends on a somber note, questioning the future of our world and leaving the listener with a sense of urgency and a call to action. 'Driven To Tears' is not just a song but a powerful commentary on social responsibility, empathy, and the need for collective action in the face of global crises.