The lyrics speak about a belief in celebration, freedom, and breaking free from chains. The song references the third world war, the atomic bomb, and the powers that be, but expresses a sense of defiance and belief in one's own ability to overcome. The lyrics also mention belief in the bells of Christ's Church, the walls of Jericho, and the city's children.

Meaning of "A Celebration" by U2

"A Celebration" by U2 can be interpreted as a song that reflects hope, resilience, and the power of belief in the face of challenges. The repeated references to shaking off chains and dancing symbolize a desire for freedom and joy in the midst of adversity. The belief in being able to overcome even the most daunting of threats, such as war and destruction, suggests a sense of optimism and inner strength. The references to Christ's Church and Mount Joy can be seen as spiritual symbols of faith and endurance, while mentioning the city's children and the walls of Jericho could allude to the idea of unity and perseverance.

The lyrics also touch upon questioning one's purpose and existence, with the line "What am I doing here..." hinting at introspection and a search for meaning. Overall, the song conveys a message of resilience, defiance against oppressive forces, and the importance of holding onto hope and belief in the face of adversity.