U2 Fans have you enjoyed a book about the boys that you would feel is worth sharing with your fellow U2 fans? Send a letter to the editor directly. Your review could be the featured review of the week.
Walk On: The Spiritual Journey Of U2
By: Steve Stockman Review: Sara ( From London)
Walk On was an absolutely fascinating read! In fact, it was so good that its worth a read again I have been a distant fan of U2 since my early teens (I’m 30 now). By “distant” I mean that I haven’t followed their life and music as closely as some fans have (at least not too far beyond their earlier albums). I did purchase a copy of “All That You Can’t Leave Behind” and I think it is now probably one of my favorites (along with October, The Unforgettable Fire and The Joshua Tree)!
I have always found some inspiration in the life and music of U2. Such a statement bothers some Christians and that is precisely why they need to read this book. One of the things I have always most admired about this band is that they are real and they often wear their hearts right out on their sleeves… There are some very deep, inspiring, contemplative, introspective and sometimes questioning themes that flow consistently through the lyrics of U2’s songs. In fact, I don’t know of one album that U2 has released that didn’t express some facet of spirituality in one way or another.
Walk On: The Spiritual Journey Of U2 presents an intimate look into the lives of a group of true believers who are not playing games with anyone. They don’t make excuses for their imperfections or try to cover up their frustration with the condition of the world and how few, especially …Most Christians who can’t get past the sight of a cigarette, a beer or the sound of a cuss word, will have trouble seeing the honest heart of a guy like Bono who is as sincere and devout as they come!…Bono once made the statement in an interview that the reason he is attracted to the Scriptures and figures like Christ is because he is not like them and wants to be; he is drawn to that power greater than himself that can change a man’s heart and actions. He admits his weakness but knows the source of this power; God. He is also very inspired by the grace of God.
However unorthodox the bros in U2 seem to the rest of Christendom, these guys are very sincere and very plugged in to God (in fact, I would dare say they are seeking harder and desiring that intimate connection with the Lord than probably a lot of Christians who attend churches today are). This book will be a refreshing eye opener to people who have had questions about U2 and whether or not their faith is real. It will answer some questions for fans as well as give those unfamiliar with the band a proper introduction to who they are. I think that especially those believers who have expressed criticism towards U2 need to read this great book. I found it very inspiring and challenging to my faith.
In consideration of the song Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, I believe it is a statement about the fact that this band is still searching, but not for God. They have found Him, (all accept the bass player who is agnostic). What they are searching for is an honest expression of truth by those who profess to know Him. An expression of truth that is more than merely words professed, but actions demonstrated. One might also consider this song in respect to 1 Corinthians 13 (the line, “I have spoken with the tongues of angels…”), where love is the only thing that really matters. Bono seems to be expressing that he has experienced the “things” of God, but desires more; to be captivated and completely motivated by love. These guys have not walked away, they are determined to “Walk On!”
I highly recommend this book! It will be most meaningful to those who are at least remotely familiar with U2’s music, but I think even someone who doesn’t know much about them at all will find a number of insightful gems in this great title.
Thank you Sara, this sounds like a great read, fast read and for most of us today. We sometimes need a little church in our lives. U2 fans if your interested in sharing your U2 story write us directly and lets see if your review could be our next weekly book review.
Also remember you can purchase all your U2 books, Music and frankly anything you like from friends at amazon