How The Story Ends

Megadeth's 'How The Story Ends' paints a vivid and grim picture of inevitable destruction and war. The song opens with a distant yet ominous image of approaching torches, symbolizing an impending threat. The lyrics suggest that this threat is not just a possibility but a certainty, as the sound of marching infantry grows louder, creating a hypnotic rhythm that signifies the relentless advance of chaos and conflict. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative where destruction is not just imminent but unavoidable.

The chorus reinforces this sense of inevitability with lines like 'Destroying every town, light it up and burn it down.' The repetition of these lines emphasizes the thoroughness and finality of the destruction. The phrase 'You may not like it now, but this is how the story ends' serves as a stark reminder that the outcome is predetermined, and resistance is futile. This fatalistic view is further underscored by the imagery of poisoned wells and scorched earth, suggesting that the devastation is total and leaves nothing behind.

The song also delves into the sensory experiences of war, from the 'ring of clashing steel' to the 'smoke of cannonballs' and the 'drums of death.' These vivid descriptions immerse the listener in the chaos and brutality of battle, making the narrative not just a story but a visceral experience. The flags of war and the cadence of drums serve as rallying points for warriors, indicating that the cycle of violence is a collective endeavor, driven by a shared, albeit grim, purpose. Through its powerful imagery and relentless rhythm, 'How The Story Ends' captures the essence of war's inevitability and the totality of its destruction.