Out Of Control

U2's song 'Out Of Control' delves into the tumultuous journey of growing up and the inevitable loss of innocence that accompanies it. The lyrics open with a reflection on the passage of time, marked by the protagonist's eighteenth birthday. This milestone is often associated with the transition from adolescence to adulthood, a period fraught with uncertainty and a sense of being overwhelmed. The repeated question, 'how long,' underscores the protagonist's struggle to grasp the rapid changes and the responsibilities that come with maturity.

The song's chorus, 'I was on the feeling it was out of control,' captures the essence of this chaotic transition. The protagonist feels powerless against the forces shaping their life, a sentiment echoed in the verses that describe the mundane routines of life, such as going to school and societal expectations. The line 'Boys and girls to school, and girls they make children, not like this one' suggests a deviation from the norm, hinting at a sense of alienation or rebellion against traditional roles and expectations.

As the song progresses, the theme of fate becomes more pronounced. The protagonist acknowledges the inevitability of death and the lack of control over one's destiny with lines like 'One day I'll die, the choice will not be mine.' This acceptance of fate is juxtaposed with the earlier struggle against it, symbolized by the imagery of 'blood at the garden gate.' The garden gate could represent the threshold between childhood and adulthood, a passage marked by conflict and loss. Ultimately, 'Out Of Control' is a poignant exploration of the existential angst that accompanies the journey from youth to adulthood, capturing the universal struggle to find one's place in a world that often feels overwhelming and uncontrollable.