The Meaning Behind The Song: The Tide Is Turning by Roger Waters
I am listening to this song by Roger Waters, “The Tide Is Turning,” while writing this article. It has always been a powerful and thought-provoking song for me. The lyrics are captivating, and they convey a strong message about war and its consequences. Through this song, Waters criticizes the idea of war being used for entertainment purposes and sheds light on the hope for change and a better future.
The World as We Know It
The song starts with the realization that the world is not what it seems. Waters reflects on his past belief that the world was flat, metaphorically indicating how limited his perspective was. He admits to rarely throwing his hat into the crowd, signifying his reluctance to engage or take a stand.
Waters further expresses his concern for the future by mentioning how he used to watch his children at night, feeling a sense of fear and dread. The image of his “little ones burning” evokes a deep emotional response and portrays the vulnerability of innocence in the face of potential destruction.
The Turning Tide
However, amidst this darkness, Waters introduces a ray of hope – the tide is turning. He uses the image of a satellite, which represents technology and communication, buzzing through the endless night. This satellite is no longer exclusive to moonshots or world title fights, but it becomes a channel for compassion and light.
Waters questions the notions of strength and superiority between East and West, criticizing the indoctrination of such ideas to children. He acknowledges that these harmful beliefs are what the younger generation is being taught, emphasizing the urgency for change.
The subsequent repetition of the line “the tide is turning” reinforces the optimism and hope that things can indeed change for the better.
A Symbol of Unity
The song takes a turn as Waters acknowledges the confusion of the satellite, contrasting it with the compassion and light he witnessed on a Saturday night. He expresses how his heart warmed to the sight of a billion candles burning. This image represents collective action and unity against the forces that promote war and destruction.
Waters states that the battle is not yet won, but he highlights the symbolic victory of the young generation in wresting technology’s sword from the hand of warlords. This indicates a shift in power and a rejection of the mindset that perpetuates conflict.
Lastly, Waters delivers a rallying cry, challenging Sylvester Stallone, a symbol of macho culture, and urging the listener not to be dragged down by the mediocrity and aggression associated with it.
The Wall – Live in Berlin (1990)
“The Tide Is Turning” is one of the songs performed by Roger Waters in his monumental concert, “The Wall – Live in Berlin,” which took place in 1990. The concert was a symbolic event commemorating the fall of the Berlin Wall and promoting unity and peace.
Credits
The live performance of “The Tide Is Turning” features the Radio-Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, along with renowned artists such as Paul Carrack, Van Morrison, Bryan Adams, Cyndi Lauper, and Joni Mitchell.
The song was produced by Nick Griffiths and Roger Waters, and it was written solely by Roger Waters.
Released on August 21, 1990, the song carries themes that resonate with audiences to this day.
Tags: Rock, Pop
Overall, “The Tide Is Turning” serves as a powerful reminder of the need for change and unity in our world. It challenges the prevailing mindset of war as entertainment and offers hope for a future where compassion and understanding prevail. As I continue to listen to this song, I am inspired to play my part in turning the tide and fostering a more peaceful and harmonious world.