Every poet is a thief: Bono channels Rilke in ‘Oh Berlin’

November 1, 2011 |  by  |  Achtung Baby, Influences  |  11 Comments

Bono channels German language poet Rainer Maria Rilke in Oh Berlin.

Every once in a while, a new song just consumes you. With the special 20th anniversary releases of Achtung Baby, U2 have unveiled some gems they’ve been sitting on for two decades, including* the song “Oh Berlin.” I have not come up for air from this track since my first listen two days ago.

I’ve been feverishly doing some quick research to get a basic understanding of the many references in the song — literary, biblical, autobiographical. This is sort of a survey of what I’ve discovered. It doesn’t delve too deep into the works alluded to, but rather slides down the surface of things. I’d like to continue developing it and welcome any additional insights, comments or corrections. So, before you read any further, do this:

Listen to “Oh Berlin” right now.

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