Song meaning of Everybody Wants to Rule the World (12" Version) by Tears for Fears

"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears is a classic 80s anthem that delves into the universal desire for power and control. The song opens with the lines, "Welcome to your life, there's no turning back," immediately setting the tone for a journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's ambitions. The lyrics suggest that even in our sleep, we are constantly being sought after and influenced by external forces.

The chorus, "Everybody wants to rule the world," serves as a powerful statement about the inherent human desire for dominance and authority. It reflects the idea that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, craves power and control over their own lives and the world around them. This desire is further emphasized in the line, "Acting on your best behavior, turn your back on mother nature," which suggests that individuals are willing to go against their natural instincts and conform to societal expectations in order to achieve their goals.

The second verse introduces the concept of personal responsibility and the consequences of one's actions. The lines, "It's my own design, it's my own remorse," imply that the pursuit of power and control is a personal choice, and one must bear the burden of the decisions they make. The lyrics also touch upon the fleeting nature of success and pleasure, with the line, "Nothing ever lasts forever," reminding us that even the most powerful individuals are subject to the passage of time.

The bridge of the song paints a vivid image of a sanctuary amidst chaos, with the lyrics, "There's a room where the light won't find you, holding hands while the walls come tumbling down." This suggests that even in the face of adversity and the crumbling of societal structures, there is solace and unity to be found.

The final verses of the song highlight the frustration and disillusionment that can arise from the pursuit of power. The lyrics, "I can't stand this indecision, married with a lack of vision," express a sense of dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. The song concludes with the lines, "Say that you'll never, never, never need it, one headline - why believe it? Everybody wants to rule the world," which question the validity and worth of power and control, implying that perhaps it is an illusion that ultimately leaves us unfulfilled.

Overall, "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" is a thought-provoking song that explores the universal desire for power and control, while also questioning its true value and the consequences it brings. The lyrics serve as a reminder that despite our individual ambitions, we are all connected by this shared longing for dominance.