Pink Floyd – Run Like Hell

About the song

Released as the fourth single from Pink Floyd’s groundbreaking 1979 album “The Wall”, “Run Like Hell” stands as one of the most iconic and intense tracks in the band’s expansive catalog. Known for its driving rhythm, ominous atmosphere, and poignant lyrics, the song encapsulates the essence of the album’s themes of isolation, fear, and rebellion. “The Wall” itself is a concept album that explores the inner turmoil of its protagonist, Pink, as he gradually builds emotional walls around himself, alienating those he loves and pushing away society at large. “Run Like Hell” serves as a powerful, almost frantic representation of Pink’s inner struggle.

The song, which was written by Roger Waters, Pink Floyd’s primary lyricist and bassist, is a visceral commentary on fear and the desire to escape. “Run Like Hell” was inspired by the notion of running away from life’s problems, but also running from the very forces that cause these problems. The track is packed with urgency—its staccato rhythm, harsh, distorted guitars, and echoing, almost robotic vocals give it a sense of panic and claustrophobia. The lyric “Run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run like hell” reflects the desperation of someone trying to flee from an overwhelming emotional situation. This sense of escape is further emphasized by the disorienting instrumental breaks and the relentless, driving beat.

From a thematic perspective, “Run Like Hell” functions as a commentary on society’s tendency to run from confrontation or difficult truths. The protagonist, Pink, is both the victim and the perpetrator of his own alienation, and the song becomes a metaphor for the inability to face the consequences of one’s actions or the fear of vulnerability. The track can also be seen as a reflection of the social and political climate of the late 1970s, a time marked by widespread fear and distrust of authority. Roger Waters, who was known for his politically charged lyrics, uses the song to question societal values, consumerism, and the dehumanizing effects of modern life.

Musically, “Run Like Hell” stands out with its use of synthesizers, which were a relatively new addition to the band’s sound. These electronic elements, combined with the powerful, rhythmic guitar work of David Gilmour, create a sense of urgency and propulsion that perfectly matches the song’s lyrical content. The combination of clean, almost robotic vocals and Gilmour’s fiery guitar solo creates a juxtaposition of the mechanical and the human, capturing the internal conflict between escapism and confrontation.

As with much of Pink Floyd’s work, “Run Like Hell” carries a social and psychological weight that goes beyond its surface-level interpretation. It touches on the universal fear of facing one’s own faults, the impulse to retreat when confronted with difficult emotions, and the breakdown of meaningful connections. These themes resonate with listeners on a deeply emotional level, particularly in a time when fear, war, and social unrest were prevalent in society.

The impact of “Run Like Hell” extends far beyond its initial release. “The Wall”, as an album, became one of the most influential and successful works in rock history, and “Run Like Hell” remains a staple in Pink Floyd’s live performances. Its aggressive energy and relentless pace have made it a fan favorite, often regarded as one of the standout tracks in the band’s legendary catalog. The song has also influenced countless artists in various genres, particularly in the way it blends rock with elements of electronic music and its ability to convey a sense of anxiety and paranoia.

In conclusion, “Run Like Hell” is more than just a song—it is an exploration of the human condition, fear, and the deep, emotional walls we often build around ourselves. Its urgency, thematic depth, and revolutionary use of technology make it a timeless piece of rock music. For fans of Pink Floyd and those discovering the band for the first time, “Run Like Hell” remains an iconic track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s unique ability to blend musical experimentation with profound emotional storytelling.

Video

Lyrics

Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run,
Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run.
You better make your face up in
Your favourite disguise.
With your button down lips and your
Roller blind eyes.
With your empty smile
And your hungry heart.
Feel the bile rising from your guilty past.
With your nerves in tatters
As the cockleshell shatters
And the hammers batter
Down the door.
You’d better run.

Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run,
Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run, Run.

You better run all day
And run all night.
Keep your dirty feelings
Deep inside.
And if you’re taking your girlfriend
Out tonight
You’d better park the car
Well out of sight.
Cause if they catch you in the back seat
Trying to pick her locks,
They’re gonna send you back to mother
In a cardboard box.
You better run.