4. One - U2
Like John Lennon’s *Imagine*, this song has been embraced as a call for unity, peace, and togetherness. It’s been used at political rallies, in response to tragedies, and even at weddings. However, the song’s true meaning is quite different. It was written during a time when U2 was on the verge of breaking up, and the band decided to set aside their differences to finish their album. The song is about staying together out of necessity, not choice.
Bono has expressed frustration over how misunderstood the song is. He once said, “The song is a bit twisted, which is why I could never understand why people wanted it at their weddings. I ask them, ‘Are you crazy? This song is about division.’” The misinterpretation of One highlights the power of music to transcend its original intent and take on new meanings for each listener. The lyrics, which speak of suffering, compromise, and the struggle to maintain a relationship, resonated with people on a broader scale than U2 initially intended. Lines like “We’re one, but we’re not the same” and “We get to carry each other” have been interpreted as calls for global unity and mutual support. This contrast between the song’s origins as a band’s internal struggle and its reception as a universal anthem for togetherness showcases the complexity of artistic interpretation and U2’s songwriting prowess.
