Song meaning of Don't Drink the Water by Tears for Fears

"Don't Drink the Water" by Tears for Fears is a song that delves into themes of religion, societal judgment, and emotional repression. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world filled with hypocrisy and superficiality.

In the first verse, the song criticizes the oppressive nature of organized religion and the judgmental attitudes that often accompany it. The line "This is a religion, No, this is a drag" suggests that the speaker sees religion as a burden rather than a source of enlightenment. The derogatory term "fag" is used to highlight the narrow-mindedness and prejudice that can exist within society.

The chorus, "Don't say, 'Thank God for simple truths,'" serves as a cautionary statement against blindly accepting conventional wisdom without questioning its validity. It encourages listeners to think critically and not be swayed by simplistic explanations or beliefs.

The second verse introduces the idea of emotional repression and the consequences of hiding one's true self. The line "The shutters were never open, The day I used to hide" suggests that the speaker has been concealing their emotions and true identity. The mention of Frida Kahlo, a renowned artist known for her self-portraits that often depicted her inner struggles, further emphasizes the theme of emotional suppression.

The bridge of the song highlights the depth of emotion and the vastness of the speaker's feelings. The line "These eyes a strange kind of blue, Deep as the ocean" suggests that the speaker's emotions run deep and are as vast as the sea. The reference to naming a sea after someone implies that the speaker's emotions are so intense that they leave a lasting impact.

Overall, "Don't Drink the Water" by Tears for Fears is a thought-provoking song that encourages listeners to question societal norms, embrace their true selves, and not be swayed by superficiality or simplistic beliefs.