Xtc, "dear | God"

The song is structured as a letter to a deity, evolving from humble requests for a "reduction in the amount of tears" to a full-scale rejection of religious dogma.

: Partridge questions why a creator would allow starvation, disease, and "the babes you drown". XTC, "Dear God"

: Many listeners find the song deeply emotional because it speaks to a "heartbroken believer"—someone who desperately wants to believe but finds the reality of the world makes it impossible. Impact and Controversy The song is structured as a letter to

Upon its American release, "Dear God" became a lightning rod for controversy. Some radio stations received bomb threats, and at least one DJ was reportedly held at knifepoint to stop the song from playing. Despite (or because of) this, the song’s music video won the Billboard Best Video award in 1987. Impact and Controversy Upon its American release, "Dear