Tears For Fears’ classic hit "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" is one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s. It is a powerful and thought-provoking anthem about the human drive for power and control. The lyrics of the song are thought-provoking and full of symbolism. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of this classic song and explore their meaning.
Tears For Fears’ "Everybody Wants to Rule the World"
Tears For Fears’ "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was released in 1985 as the lead single from the band’s second album, Songs from the Big Chair. The song was a massive success, reaching number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, and number one on the UK Singles Chart. The song has since become a classic, and is widely regarded as one of the defining songs of the 1980s.
A Lyrical Analysis
The song is an anthem about the human desire for power and control. The lyrics tell a story of a world in which everybody is striving to be the ruler. The song opens with the line "Welcome to your life/There’s no turning back", which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The protagonist is warning us that once we have embraced our desire for power, there is no going back.
The chorus of the song is particularly powerful and thought-provoking. The lyrics "Everybody wants to rule the world/It’s my own design" suggest that the protagonist believes that power is something that can be taken, rather than something that is given. This is a powerful statement about the human desire for power, and the lengths people will go to achieve it.
The second verse of the song introduces a new element to the story. The lyrics "There’s a room where the light won’t find you/Holding hands while the walls come tumbling down" suggest that the protagonist is trying to protect someone from the dangers of power. This could be interpreted as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power, and the potential consequences of trying to take control.
The bridge of the song is a powerful and haunting refrain. The lyrics "Power, corruption and lies/You can’t keep the spirits down" suggest that the protagonist is warning us that even if we try to take control, there will always be forces beyond our control. This is a powerful statement about the limits of human power and control.
Tears For Fears’
The English duo Tears for Fears is no stranger to international success, as their 1985 hit single “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” has remained popular for over thirty years. While the track’s impact has endured the test of time, its symbolic message has been increasingly relevant with each passing decade. The thought-provoking lyrics of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” explore the themes of power and greed as lead singer/songwriter Roland Orzabal elegantly describes the universal desire to be in control. Moreover, the memorable chorus begs the question of whether idealistic visions of an all-powerful utopia can ever be achieved.
The line “Welcome to your life” captures the idea of the vast potential of power, as everyone can potentially influence their destinies through their decisions. Although the idea of having absolute control may seem promising, the verse “High on a power rush, what a chill” warns that too much authority can have adverse consequences, as leaders can be overwhelmed and blinded by their newfound superiority.
The song also has a subtle yet powerful message about society and its structures. The verses “Will you carry the weight of success, on your own?” touch upon the idea that achieving total control and power over others does not come without its fair share of responsibility and stress. Thus, the song implies that freedom comes with a greater sense of obligation to the people who are under the ruler’s command.
In conclusion, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” captures the joy and sorrow of ambition. The lyrics show that those who long for power need to be prepared to handle the potential risks and challenges that come with making such a pursuit. Ultimately, the song stands as a timeless reminder of the delicate balance between liberty and accountability.
