Tolerance
10,000 Maniacs · Trilogy [2005]
A loud breaking sound in the night is made
Hear it grow, hear it fade
The sound you're hearing, the sound you're fearing
Is the hate that parades up and down our streets
Coming within bounds and within reach
Now, inside the place we hide away
We hear it near and hope it turns away, turn away
There's something seething in the air we're breathing
We learn slash and burn is the method to use
Set a flame, burn it new
We're overpowered, we kneel, we cower
We cover our heads, feel the threat of blows that will come
And the damage that will be done in its wake
Now, inside this place we hide away
We hear it near although it's miles away
We hear it near and hope it turns away, turn away
This house divided, we live inside it
Hate's dwelling place is behind our doors
In fitful nights hear it walk the floor and hear it rave
As it moans and drags along its ball and chain
As it moves through this house, it can't escape
Now, inside this place we hide away
We hear it near and hope it turns away, turn away
Turn away, turn away, turn away, turn away
About Tolerance
"Tolerance" by 10,000 Maniacs stands as a defining track from their 2005 album Trilogy, showcasing the group's signature blend of indie rock and atmospheric pop. The song features the band's characteristic harmonies and introspective songwriting, reflecting their evolution as a collective that prioritizes emotional resonance over conventional radio structures. Released during a period where the group was redefining their sound while maintaining their core identity, the recording exemplifies their ability to craft lush, textured soundscapes that resonate with listeners seeking depth in their music. The track remains a staple of their discography, often cited alongside other Trilogy releases like "Eat For Two" and "Headstrong" as part of their most cohesive body of work. It captures the essence of 10,000 Maniacs' late-career output, where they balanced experimental elements with accessible melodies. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a specific mood, characteristic of the band's commitment to creating music that feels both personal and universally relatable within the indie landscape.