Original Sin by INXS Lyrics Meaning – Unraveling the Anthem of Unity and Love
Lyrics
And you might know how to play with fire
But did you know of the murder committed
In the name of love? Yeah, you thought, what a pity
Dream on white boy (white boy)
Dream on black girl (black girl)
And wake up to a brand new day
To find your dreams are washed away
There was a time when I did not care
And there was a time when the facts did stare
There is a dream and held by many
Well, I’m sure you had to see it’s open arms
Dream on white boy (white boy)
Dream on black girl (black girl)
Then wake up to a brand new day
To find your dreams have washed away
You might know of the original sin
You might know how to play with fire
But did you know of the murder committed
In the name of love? Yeah, you thought, what a pity
Dream on white boy (white boy)
Dream on black girl (black girl)
And wake up to a brand new day
Dream on black boy (black boy)
Dream on white girl (white girl)
And wake up to a brand new day
To find your dreams have washed away
Dream on black boy (black boy)
Dream on white girl (white girl)
And wake up to a brand new day
To find your dreams have washed away
Dream on, play with fire
White boy, black girl
Dream on, in the name of love
Black boy, white girl
Dream on, white boy, black girl
Black boy, white girl
Dream on
In the name of love, yeah
You thought what a pity
Yeah
Original sin
Released in 1984, ‘Original Sin’ by INXS is more than just a product of its time. It is a piece of music that continues to resonate, capturing a moment of social awakening and a plea for racial harmony. The track, infused with an irresistible rhythm and Michael Hutchence’s seductive vocals, delivers a message that extends far beyond the era it was crafted in.
The layers of ‘Original Sin’ extend into various topical territories: an audacious take on race relations, a dreamer’s anthem, a parable of forbidden flames. However, as seemingly straightforward as INXS’s hit single might come off at first, upon a closer look, the nuances reveal complexities worth exploring.
A Deeper Dive into the Racial Harmony Anthem
At first glance, ‘Original Sin’ appears to be a reminder of the untainted dreams that inhabit us all, regardless of the color of our skin. ‘Dream on white boy, Dream on black girl,’ implores the hook, etching an image of a world where the content of one’s character outshines the complexion of their skin.
Such lines were more than mere words during a period rocked by apartheid and racial segregation. INXS didn’t just release a song; they unleashed a call for change, a groovy plea for equality wrapped in the fabric of a pop-rock track. Original Sin became the megaphone for a generation clamoring for the world to witness their ‘brand new day’.
The Hidden Meaning Behind Forbidden Flames
Beyond the veneer of an anti-racism anthem, ‘Original Sin’ delves into the ancient concept of forbidden love – a love seen as original sin. INXS cleverly likens this to playing with fire, suggesting a danger and intensity to relationships that cross societal and racial boundaries.
Lines like ‘You might know of the original sin / And you might know how to play with fire’ reinforce the idea that breaking taboo – falling in love across racial divides, in this case – is both a primordial act and a transgressive one. It’s a dual-edged sword that cuts through the heart of societal norms, questioning the very fabric of love’s conditions.
Memorable Lines That Echo Through Decades
‘Dream on black boy, Dream on white girl’ – these lines not only embed themselves in the minds of listeners, but they also encapsulate the soul of the song. They represent a yearning to escape the prejudices ingrained in society, to dream of a world not dictated by difference but defined by diversity.
These words were more than just memorable; they were a mantra for a generation in desperate need of change. INXS offered a memorable and powerful refrain that continues to inspire listeners to envision, and work towards, a more inclusive and equal world.
The Paradox of Love in the Shadow of Sin
‘In the name of love, yeah, you thought what a pity’ – these lyrics underscore the paradoxical judgment faced by those who dare to love outside the social norms. ‘Original Sin’ goes beyond surface level critique, delving into the complexities of love, its transformative power, and the societal barriers it can challenge.
Through such poignant lines, INXS not only provides a soundtrack for those defying the status quo but also comments on the tragic reality that love, in its purest form, could be construed as ‘pity’ when it goes against ingrained prejudices.
Examining the Symbiosis of Rhythm and Message
It’s rare for a song to capture listeners’ hearts with both its beat and its message, but ‘Original Sin’ manages just that. The musicality of the track contributes heavily to its overall impact, with a hook that’s as danceable as it is deep.
INXS’s magnum opus is buoyed by charismatic synth-pop elements that created an entrancing soundscape, one that carried its weighty themes right onto dance floors and into the social consciousness of the public. The song’s contagious groove is a vessel for its potent message – a harmony that still reverberates in ears and hearts around the globe.
