Meaning of "Sleep Like A Baby Tonight" by U2

The song "Sleep Like A Baby Tonight" by U2 delves into the complexities of human emotions, particularly the struggle to find solace in a world filled with guilt, betrayal, and suffering. The lyrics open with a depiction of mundane morning routines, emphasizing the contrast between the normalcy of everyday life and the underlying turmoil that exists beneath the surface. The mention of a politician's lover creates an atmosphere of scandal and deceit, suggesting that even those in positions of power are not impervious to the consequences of their actions.

The line "Why don't you, you dress in the colours of forgiveness" suggests a yearning for redemption and a desire to escape the burdens of guilt. However, the subsequent line "Your eyes as red as Christmas" evokes a sense of pain and anguish, indicating that true forgiveness and healing are not easily attained. The image of the "purple robes folded on the kitchen chair" further highlights the disconnect between the external appearance of forgiveness, represented by the regal purple robes, and the internal turmoil that persists.

The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase "sleep like a baby tonight," conveys a longing for innocence and tranquility amidst a world filled with pain and injustice. The dreams mentioned in the lyrics represent an escape from reality, offering a respite from the struggles of life. However, the lyrics also acknowledge the dark side of dreams, describing them as a "dirty business" where there is silence and not screaming. This suggests that dreams may not always provide the healing and solace that one seeks, but rather serve as a reminder of the realities one is trying to evade.

The verse "Hope is where the door is, when the church is where the war is" is a poignant critique of organized religion, highlighting the hypocrisy and lack of empathy that can sometimes be found within religious institutions. It suggests that true hope and understanding can only be found by distancing oneself from the conflicts and hierarchies perpetuated by these institutions.

Overall, "Sleep Like A Baby Tonight" explores the themes of forgiveness, guilt, and the search for inner peace in a world marked by pain and deceit. It emphasizes the contrast between external appearances and internal struggles, questioning the effectiveness of traditional sources of redemption and encouraging a journey towards individual understanding and acceptance.