Drowning Man
by U2

Album: War (1983)
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Songfacts®:

  • The "Drowning Man" is probably U2 bass player Adam Clayton. While Bono, The Edge, and Larry Mullen were devout Christians, Clayton did not share their faith.
  • The title is not mentioned in the lyrics. It was taken from a play Bono was writing.
  • Steve Wickham played the violin. He would later join The Waterboys.
  • U2 played portions of this song on their 1983 War tour and again on their 2017 Joshua Tree tour, but they never played it live in its entirely.
  • Bono used a biblical reference in this song:

    Like eagles you'll run, you'll run
    You'll run and not grow weary


    Isaiah 40:31 reads:

    They will soar on wings like eagles
    They will run and not grow weary
    >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Bill - Johnstown, PA

Comments: 9

  • David from Woburn, MaOne of the more powerful songs from their first three albums. I always took it for face value as a love song, but now that I read that part of it cites the Bible, I guess there are religious undertones about feeling lost and without God.
  • Melvin from Pasadena, MdI fell in love with this song the first time I heard it. Many songs have gone in and of my life since then, but this song remains one of my all time favorites. As an avid boater, I sit on my boat in late evening with a cold one and just listen to this song and the sounds of the sea.If you have'nt tried this you should. Talk about relaxation......
  • Squid from Los Angeles, CaThis was smack in the middle when alcoholism was taking over the bad and adam was partying a lot
  • Shawn from Frostburg, MdThis is hardcore U2 ( if there is such a thing) If has the "Classic" U2 sound that has yet to be duplicated by any other band. quite a masterpiece in my opinion.
    I hope they go full circle and get back to this sound on their next album.
  • Dan from Atlanta, GaThis song served as a nice bridge to second half of the album. Back in the day, before CDs :), Drowning man was the last song on the first side of the album. The Refugee opened the second side.
  • Heather from Los Angeles, Cathe electric violin really heartrends this song. i like it very much.
  • Lily from Godrics Hallow, EnglandI love all their songs but this one, is one of my favs.
  • Lp from New York, NyActually, this is probably the best song on "War." I love the guitar part after "THis love will last forever..." ... nice.
  • John from Madison, WiEventhough the War album is dominated by such hits as "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "New Year's Day" this song is a fine song too
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