Meaning of "Through The Barricades" by Spandau Ballet

"Through The Barricades" is a powerful anthem that delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a divided and tumultuous society. The lyrics portray a narrative of two individuals, with the perspective shifting between the story of the mother and the father.

The song begins with the mother's point of view, emphasizing her uncertainty about the whereabouts of love. She attributes her resilience to her youth, suggesting that it is what keeps her feeling strong. However, her face reflects the toll that sacrifice has taken on her, evident in the way her smile reveals lines of hardship. The fading sun symbolizes the decline of hope, amidst which the couple has built their love. The wasteland and barricades serve as metaphors for the obstacles and divisions that surround them.

The focus then shifts to the father, who has fought for freedom and taught the protagonist what to believe in. However, the tearing of their shared beliefs leaves the protagonist feeling disillusioned and adrift. The music of the parade simultaneously signifies the power of expression and the loss of direction. The couple's love becomes a beacon of light amidst the wasteland, a testament to their resilience and determination.

The third verse explores the connection between the two individuals, born on different sides of life yet feeling the same strife. The idea of crossing the line and dancing upon the streets while the drums fade signifies a temporary escape from the realities they face. The scar through the protagonist's heart represents the pain they have endured, but they are willing to bear it for love. The reference to being "just another borderline case" comments on the arbitrary divisions society imposes and the struggle to overcome them.

The song concludes with the acknowledgment of the troubled land they inhabit. Desperation is what drives them to endure, and the line "Friday's child is full of soul, with nothing left to lose there's everything to go" suggests that they have the strength and determination to persevere. The concept of a "terrible beauty" describes the paradoxical nature of their situation, where love is both profound and arduous. Their love serves as a defiant act, made in defiance of the wasteland and the barricades that seek to divide them. As their hearts go to their graves, the legacy of their love remains a testament to their triumph over adversity.