XTC really pushed the boundaries regarding freedom of speech when they tackled probably the most controversial subject of all; religion. The lyrics, written by English singer, songwriter, and guitarist Andy Partridge are addressed directly to God and vividly detail the full gamut of human suffering; unnecessary suffering which God, in his omnibenevolence, is blamed for allowing. Employing explicit anti-God sentiments, XTC directly attacks the notion of God with the singer concluding each verse with the line 'I can't believe in you'. Dear God contains highly controversial subject matter which led to many record shops refusing to stock the track through fear of a religious backlash.