RED
XTC Lyrics


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You better watch your tape boys
It's the tint that angers the beast
Got their sails in the sunset
They've already got the east

Red red red
Don't you let them make you
Don't let them make you see...red

You better watch your lead boys
It's already in your veins
Did you ever see the colour
Iron turns when it rains

It's not a gross infatuation
It's not a fear, it's not a crush




It's not any special nation
But even now they make me blush

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Red" by XTC are ambiguous, and they can be interpreted in different ways. The song seems to be about power, control, and aggression. The singer warns the boys to be careful with their actions because they might provoke a violent response. The use of the color red, which is often associated with blood, anger, and danger, reinforces the idea of potential violence. The mention of the "tint" that angers the beast implies that the boys' behavior might trigger aggressive responses from others, who might see them as threats. The line "They've already got the east" suggests that the boys' actions might have geopolitical implications, as if they were competing with others for power or territory.


The second verse builds on the theme of control and aggression. The use of lead as a metaphor for authority or dominance highlights the idea that some people want to control others. The color red appears again in the reference to the color of iron when it rains. This line might suggest that even natural phenomena can display violent or aggressive traits. The singer seems to distance themselves from the subjects of the song, declaring that their interest in them is not a "gross infatuation" or a "fear" or a "crush." The reason for their blush remains unclear, but it could suggest that the singer is aware of their own potential for aggression or violence, or that they are intrigued by the potential implications of the boys' behavior.


Line by Line Meaning

You better watch your tape boys
Be cautious of what you record and say, boys


It's the tint that angers the beast
Pay attention to the subtleties that could provoke one's anger


Got their sails in the sunset
They have success and are progressing towards the end of their journey


They've already got the east
They have already succeeded in conquering the eastern region


Red red red
Warning of anger or danger


Don't you let them make you
Don't allow others to change you and your beliefs


Don't let them make you see...red
Don't let them provoke you to anger


You better watch your lead boys
Be careful of the direction you are heading in, boys


It's already in your veins
The influence or danger is already present within you


Did you ever see the colour
Have you ever noticed the shade or mood


Iron turns when it rains
Things can change or become tainted when times are tough


It's not a gross infatuation
It's not an overwhelming obsession or passion


It's not a fear, it's not a crush
It's not a feeling of terror or attraction


It's not any special nation
It's not a particular group or country


But even now they make me blush
They still make me feel embarrassed or bashful




Lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing
Written by: ANDY PARTRIDGE

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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