Meaning of "When Love Comes to Town" by U2

The lyrics of "When Love Comes to Town" suggest a transformational experience when love enters one's life. The narrator starts off expressing feelings of being lost and accused, representing a state of emotional turmoil. Love is portrayed as a powerful force that rescues the narrator from their despair, evident in the lines "Before love rescued me." The imagery of jumping on a train and catching a flame symbolizes the narrator's intention to embrace this newfound love wholeheartedly.

The song also explores the theme of regret and redemption. The repetition of "Maybe I was wrong to ever let you down" suggests the narrator's remorse for their past actions before love entered their life. They recall making empty promises and leaving someone behind, indicating a sense of guilt and a desire for redemption. The juke joint scene represents a turning point, where the music serves as a catalyst for change. The imagery of the music turning their life around suggests that love has the power to transform, heal, and bring about positive change.

The reference to witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus adds a deeper layer of meaning to the song. By mentioning being present during this significant event, the narrator highlights the contrast between the division and violence they witnessed and the unifying and conquering power of love. It implies that love has the ability to overcome even the greatest divisions and bring about unity and redemption.

Overall, "When Love Comes to Town" conveys the transformative power of love in an individual's life. It explores themes of redemption, regret, and the unifying force of love, drawing upon religious symbolism to emphasize the transformative nature of love.