Meaning of "Until the End of the World" by U2

The lyrics of "Until the End of the World" by U2 carry themes of love, manipulation, and the resilience of relationships. The song seems to be reflecting on a past encounter between the narrator and someone they haven't seen in a while, possibly a former lover or close friend. The setting of a low-lit room creates an atmosphere of intimacy. Despite the ostensibly joyous occasion, this person is preoccupied with thoughts of the end of the world, perhaps suggesting their pessimism or feeling of impending doom.

The narrator confesses to spiking their drink, indicating a desire to control or influence the situation. They enjoy the element of surprise and take pleasure in their ability to disrupt the other person's emotions, as demonstrated by the line, "I kissed your lips and broke your heart." This manipulation and the mention of innocence in their eyes suggest a complicated power dynamic within their relationship.

The song moves into a dream sequence where the narrator drowns their sorrows while also acknowledging their ability to swim—their ability to cope and overcome. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the narrator's resilience and their ability to navigate emotional turmoil. The waves of regret and joy signify the complex range of emotions experienced in relationships. The narrator reaches out for the person they tried to destroy, showing a desire for reconciliation and a recognition of the potential damage they have caused.

The repeated refrain of "love, love, love" throughout the song emphasizes the central theme of love and its transformative power. It can be seen as a plea or a declaration of the narrator's unwavering affection. The final line, "you said you'd wait till the end of the world," suggests a promise of commitment and a belief in the enduring nature of their connection, even in the face of uncertainty.

Overall, "Until the End of the World" delves into the complexities of relationships, highlighting the push and pull, manipulation, and emotional resilience that can exist within them. It explores themes of love, power dynamics, and the enduring nature of connection.