Meaning of "How Did It Come To This?" by Arena

The lyrics of "How Did It Come To This?" delve into deep philosophical themes and confront the existential questions we often ponder. The song contemplates the vastness of the universe and positions humanity as mere specks of sand in comparison. It highlights the insignificance of human existence and our limited understanding of the world. The repeated question "How did it come to this?" reflects a sense of disillusionment and confusion about the path the speaker's life has taken.

The lyrics also touch upon the concept of determinism and the butterfly effect, asserting that each action and choice can have unexpected consequences. The mention of the butterfly flapping its wings symbolizes the idea that even the smallest actions can lead to significant outcomes. Similarly, the line "If an angel sings" suggests that even the most powerful and divine beings can influence the course of events. This emphasizes the idea that life is made up of a series of interconnected events and choices, leading to the present moment.

Through the imagery of a journey, the song explores the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. The speaker acknowledges their longing for something beyond human comprehension but is faced with the limitations of their understanding. The line "How could I believe... There was something on the other side of it all" reflects the speaker's struggle to reconcile their desire for greater knowledge with their realization of their own limitations.

The lyrics convey a sense of disappointment and resignation, as the speaker reflects on their expectations of life and the reality they have found themselves in. The lines "Honestly, I never thought I'd seek adventure in my life" and "Honestly, I never thought I'd read such judgement in my life" reveal a sense of surprise at the unexpected turns life has taken. The repeated question "How did it come to this?" expresses the speaker's longing for answers and a deeper understanding of their own journey and purpose.