How's It Going To Be?

Third Eye Blind's song "How's It Going To Be?" delves into the emotional turmoil and uncertainty that accompanies the end of a relationship. The lyrics capture the narrator's struggle with the impending breakup, reflecting on the changes that have occurred and the inevitable separation. The song opens with a sense of resignation, as the narrator admits they can't take the conflict anymore and questions the purpose of their fights. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the emotional landscape of a failing relationship.

The recurring question, "How's it gonna be?" serves as a poignant refrain throughout the song, highlighting the narrator's anxiety about the future without their partner. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the transformation from a once joyful and intimate connection to a state of alienation and silence. The imagery of an empty hammock and the absence of lightning, which once symbolized the spark in their relationship, underscores the sense of loss and longing. The narrator's contemplation of how life will be when they are no longer known by their partner adds a layer of existential dread to the song.

As the song progresses, the narrator oscillates between a desire to escape the pain and a yearning to reconnect with the past. The phrase "the soft dive of oblivion" suggests a longing for a numbness that can only come from complete detachment, yet there is also a craving for the physical and emotional intimacy that once existed. This duality captures the complexity of human emotions during a breakup, where the desire to move on is often intertwined with the fear of losing a part of oneself. Ultimately, "How's It Going To Be?" is a powerful exploration of the uncertainties and emotional struggles that come with the end of a significant relationship.