Meaning of "Face the Fire" by Dan Fogelberg

The lyrics of "Face the Fire" address societal issues such as corruption, greed, and apathy, urging the listener to become aware of these problems and take action to address them. The imagery of the island leaking into the bay and poison spreading symbolizes the insidious nature of corruption and its far-reaching consequences. By warning that the risks grow greater with each passing day, the song emphasizes the urgency of confronting these issues before they escalate further. The reference to people running from what they can't see highlights the tendency to ignore problems that are not immediately visible, and the need to face uncomfortable truths in order to effect change. The call to "kill the fire and turn to the sun" implies a need to extinguish the destructive forces at play and embrace a brighter future. Ultimately, the song serves as a wake-up call, reminding the listener of the importance of recognizing and addressing societal injustices before it's too late.