Lemon
U2
The Vivid Imagery of U2's 'Lemon'
U2's song 'Lemon' is a rich tapestry of visual and emotional imagery, woven with metaphors and introspective musings. The recurring motif of the color lemon, which stands out in the lyrics, symbolizes vibrancy and perhaps a zest for life, contrasting with the 'cold grey night.' The woman in the song, associated with this color, seems to be a muse or an elusive figure that the narrator is both drawn to and pained by. Her ability to 'make you cry' and 'whisper and moan' suggests a deep emotional impact on those she touches.
The song also delves into the theme of creation and reflection. The 'man' in the lyrics is a creator, making pictures and capturing colors, which could be a metaphor for an artist trying to understand himself and the world around him through his art. This creative process is likened to a spiritual quest, with the man's endeavors to 'turn his money into light' to find the woman, or perhaps, to find meaning and inspiration. The line 'Midnight is where the day begins' reinforces the idea of beginnings and the potential for renewal or transformation that comes with it.
'Lemon' can also be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition and our constant search for something beyond the tangible. The man's dreams of leaving but staying behind, and the search for 'something other' during days when 'our work has come asunder,' reflect a universal struggle with ambition, desire, and the limitations of reality. U2, known for their poetic lyrics and social commentary, often explore such themes, and 'Lemon' is a testament to their ability to blend personal introspection with broader existential questions.