The song "The Earth Dies Screaming" by UB40 depicts a bleak and apocalyptic world where the earth is slowly dying. The lyrics paint a picture of desolation and despair, with a warm dry wind symbolizing the lifelessness and emptiness of the surroundings. The highways, usually bustling with activity, are now quiet and scarred, indicating the devastation caused by some unknown catastrophe. People lie with closed eyes, no longer dreaming, suggesting a loss of hope and a sense of resignation to their fate. The earth is personified as dying and screaming, reflecting the pain and agony it is going through. The imagery of scattered pebbles and cars lying silent waiting signifies the abandonment and inactivity caused by the absence of oil and the accumulation of dirt and sand. Bodies hanging limp, no longer bleeding, implies a lack of life and vitality in the world. The repetition of the line "The earth dies screaming" serves as a powerful refrain, emphasizing the urgency and magnitude of the earth's destruction. It conveys a sense of desperation and the need for action. The second part of the song highlights the call for unity and resistance. It urges people to come together and defend their land, even against seemingly insurmountable odds. The lyrics suggest that despite the dire circumstances, there is still a glimmer of hope and a determination to fight for survival. The mention of half-eaten meals rotting on tables symbolizes the wastefulness and neglect of resources, possibly implying that humans have contributed to the earth's demise through their actions. The money clutched within a bony hand represents the futility of material wealth in the face of impending disaster. The shuttered banks not receiving suggests a collapse of the financial system, further emphasizing the breakdown of society. Overall, the song serves as a potent warning about the consequences of environmental degradation and the importance of taking action to protect the earth.
