☝️ Key Points
- The song addresses the theme of conflict and violence in Northern Ireland during the Northern Ireland conflict.
- It expresses frustration and sadness over the ongoing violence and raises the question of why the conflict does not end.
- The term 'zombie' is used to describe the mindless and senseless nature of the conflict.
- The lyrics question the motives of those who fight and urge reflection on the senseless effects of violence.
- A message of peace and a desire for an end to the conflict are expressed.
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song 'Zombie' by The
Cranberries deal with the theme of conflict and violence in Northern Ireland during the Northern Ireland conflict. The lyrics express frustration and sadness over the ongoing violence and pose the question of why the conflict does not end.
In the first part of the lyrics, it is described how innocent people - symbolized by a child and a mother - are affected by the violence. The singer notes that it is not him or his family who are suffering, but other people. He describes the silence caused by the violence and questions who is making a mistake.
In the chorus, the term 'zombie' is used to describe the mindless and senseless nature of the conflict. It is suggested that those who fight do so without a real reason. The lyrics ask what is going on in their minds and why they can't stop.
In the second part of the lyrics, it is pointed out that the conflict has been going on since 1916, referencing the Easter Rising in Ireland. It is emphasized that even after all these years, the conflict still persists and people are still dying.
The lyrics of the song 'Zombie' therefore express frustration over the ongoing conflict and violence in Northern Ireland. They question the motives of those who fight and call for reflection on the senseless consequences of violence. They also convey a message of peace and the desire for an end to the conflict.