It Has To Be This Way

The song 'It Has To Be This Way' by the artist Metal Gear Rising is a powerful track that delves into the themes of conflict, destiny, and the cyclical nature of violence. The lyrics suggest a moment of reflection between two adversaries who recognize their similarities, questioning the morality of their actions and the judgments passed on right and wrong. The line 'You are just like me, trying to make history' implies that both parties are driven by a desire to leave their mark, to influence the course of events, despite the potential consequences.

The chorus 'Violence breeds violence, but in the end it has to be this way' encapsulates the song's central message: the tragic acceptance that violence seems to be an unavoidable part of human interaction, particularly in the pursuit of one's goals or ideals. The song's protagonist acknowledges their own role in perpetuating this cycle, carving a path that inevitably leads to conflict. This acceptance is tinged with a sense of resignation and inevitability, suggesting that despite the negative outcomes, such confrontations are sometimes necessary.

Despite the grim acceptance of violence, the song ends on a note of hope. The imagery of new life being born 'beneath the blood stained sand' suggests that even in the aftermath of destruction, there is potential for growth and renewal. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for personal growth following hardship or the broader idea of societal progress following conflict. The song, therefore, balances a grim acknowledgment of human nature with a cautious optimism for the future.