Meaning of "All Along The Watchtower" by U2

The lyrics of "All Along The Watchtower" delve into the theme of disillusionment and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The opening lines, "There must be some way out of here / Said the joker to the thief," reflect a desire for escape from a state of confusion and frustration. The mention of businessmen drinking wine and plowmen digging earth symbolizes the different societal roles and their inability to grasp the true worth of their actions.

The thief, who is seen as a voice of reason within the song, acknowledges that many consider life to be a joke. However, the joker and the thief, who have already experienced this perspective, know that it is not their destiny. They urge honesty and authenticity in their discourse, recognizing that time is running out. The repetition of "hey, hey, hey" adds a sense of urgency and emphasizes the need to act promptly.

The metaphorical representation of the watchtower signifies a position of power and observation. The ten princes who keep the view suggest those in authority, while the horsemen and barefoot servants represent the constant flux of life and the transient nature of power. The inclusion of the line "Rock 'n' Roll stops the traffic" suggests the ability of music to provide a temporary respite from the chaos and bring people together.

The refrain "All I got is a red guitar / Three chords / And the truth" signifies the simplicity and authenticity of the narrator's expression. It suggests that music, with its raw emotion and straightforwardness, can offer a path to truth and understanding. The phrase "The rest is up to you" implies that the listener has the power to interpret and find meaning in the music.

In the end, the song serves as a warning against falsehoods, urging individuals to embrace truth and reality before it becomes too late. The repetition of "the hour is getting late" emphasizes the urgency of the message and the need for action now.