How It's Going To Be

Gerard Way's 'How It's Going To Be' is a haunting exploration of disillusionment, existential angst, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels manufactured and insincere. The song opens with vivid imagery of a cityscape bathed in artificial light, setting the stage for a narrative that delves into the complexities of modern life. The 'manufactured night' and 'paper armor' suggest a world where authenticity is hard to come by, and people are often forced to wear masks to protect themselves from the harsh realities around them. The line 'They’ll hold the match to you this time' evokes a sense of impending doom, as if the protagonist is constantly on the brink of being consumed by the very world they inhabit.

The song's middle section shifts to a more personal reflection, where Way sings about moments that cannot be reprised, likening them to a 'soldier or a watch that you can’t wind.' This metaphor underscores the futility of trying to recapture lost time or missed opportunities. The imagery of fighting the world with 'hands twice-tied' speaks to the feeling of being powerless in the face of overwhelming odds. Despite the external applause ('The people cheered'), there is an internal sorrow ('the captain cried'), suggesting that public success often comes at a personal cost. The line 'I’ll keep the souvenir inside' indicates that these experiences, though painful, are cherished memories that shape one's identity.

The final verses touch on themes of broken promises and unfulfilled expectations. The line 'You made a promise then you hide' speaks to the disappointment of unmet commitments, while 'we’d all be dead by twenty-five' reflects a nihilistic outlook on life. The song closes with a poignant question: 'Can you tell me what it’s like? Or how it’s going to be?' This open-ended query encapsulates the uncertainty and longing for answers that permeate the entire song. Way's lyrics invite listeners to ponder their own lives and the paths they are on, making 'How It's Going To Be' a deeply introspective and thought-provoking piece.