I think you guys are onto something. Since Larry's the one who makes the real important decisions, is it possible he's directed this as a concept album regarding the current gay rights struggle in the U.S. and around the world? He's already been vocally appreciative of his gay fanbase, so perhaps he wanted to return the sentiment?
1. Skyline
Ok, this is similar to "when I look at the world". The narrator sees the big city in the distance. He thinks about all the different kinds of people living there, how they have different beliefs, sexualities, ideas, etc. Kind of setting the stage.
2. Every Breaking Wave
The unceasing determination of the gay rights movement. As the decades pass, its fearless soldiers break upon the beach of society and try to create harmony between the fluidity of the water and the slowly eroding landscape of outdated tradition and dogma.
3. World Press II
Bono's efforts to reduce the spread of and find a cure for AIDS is tied into the central topic.
4. Everybody Knows Who I Like
Bono writing in character, as one of those men whose friends, coworkers, and family suspect is gay, but he hasn't come to terms with it or come out to anyone yet.
5. North Star
Most of us already agree this song is totally gay.
6. Black Pictures
A focus on censorship and how Hollywood tends to "black out" gay relationships in most films, and how screenwriters and directors are often prevented from putting these stories on the screen.
7. Morleigh's Song
The Edge's long-awaited return to lead vocals, as he imagines an alternate life where he realizes his true sexuality in middle age, and must share the truth with his wife, who is ultimately compassionate about his awakening. Compassion through understanding.
8. You
Continuing with that thought, Bono asks the listener to consider: what if you were gay? How would you feel if your rights were infringed upon, or knowing that so many around the world hate you simply because of who you are. A lesson in identification and empathy.
9. Nobody Island
The loneliness that many in the closet experience when they don't feel they have anyone to talk to about their sexual identity. Similar to "Stuck In A Moment", in that it contemplates someone at the end of his rope, with with a small ray of optimism near the end.
10. Fresh 'n Furious
Little explanation is needed here, but Bono is exploring the gay nightlife with the same excitement and reckless abandon he brought to Discotheque and Vertigo. Rumor has it that the band brings back the "BOOM-CHA" on this one.
11. Earth 2030
At last, the vision of a world in the not-too-distant future where ANYONE can get married ANYWHERE, and equal rights are truly held by all. Are we up to the challenge? Is 17 years enough time for sweeping change? Bono believes it is, and believes in us the audience, to will it into reality.