This Is War
Thirty Seconds To Mars
The Battle Cry for Change: Decoding 'This Is War'
Thirty Seconds To Mars' 'This Is War' is a powerful anthem that delves into the themes of conflict, struggle, and transformation. The song's lyrics present a stark dichotomy between moments of truth and deceit, life and death, and ultimately, the fight for a 'brave new world.' The repeated declaration 'This is war' serves as a rallying cry, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the universal nature of the struggle, encompassing soldiers, civilians, leaders, and pariahs alike.
The song's chorus, with its call to fight 'to the death' and 'to the edge of the Earth,' suggests a commitment to change that is all-encompassing and unyielding. The phrase 'brave new world' is a reference to Aldous Huxley's dystopian novel, which speaks to the creation of a new society, often following a cataclysmic event. In the context of the song, it implies a rebirth or a significant shift in the world order, achieved through perseverance and struggle. The band's style, known for its grandiose and anthemic sound, amplifies the song's message, making it a battle hymn for those facing their own personal or collective wars.
The latter part of the song introduces a sense of hope and victory with the lines 'I do believe in the light' and 'The war is won.' This shift from the intensity of battle to the tranquility of victory suggests that despite the hardships faced, there is a light at the end of the tunnel—a new beginning that emerges from the resolution of conflict. The song, therefore, is not just a depiction of war but also a metaphor for personal and societal struggles, encouraging listeners to fight for what they believe in and to embrace the change that follows.