Van Diemen's Land - Live - Rattle & Hum Version Lyrics
U2
Lyrics
Hold me now
ah hold me now
'Til this hour
has gone around
and I'm gone
on the rising tide
for to face Van Diemen's land.
It's a bitter pill I swallow here
to be rent from one so dear
We fought for justice
and not for gain
but the magistrate sent me away.
Now king's will rule
and the poor will toil
and tear their hands as they tear the soil
but a day will come in this dawning age
when an honest man sees an honest wage.
Hold me now
ah hold me know
'til this hour has gone around
and I'm gone
on this rising tide
for to face Van Diemen's land.
Song & Lyrics Facts
U2's "Van Diemen's Land" is a live version of the song from their 1988 album Rattle & Hum. The track was written by U2 members Bono, Adam Clayton, Larry Mullen Jr., and The Edge.
It was released on October 10th, 1988 as part of the band's sixth studio album. This live version of the song features an extended instrumental section that serves to build up tension before the second verse. Lyrically, the song deals with themes of displacement and exile, and speaks of the Irish diaspora in Australia during the 19th century. The lyrics are full of emotion, conveying a sense of longing for home and belonging.