Meaning of "How It's Going To Be" by Gerard Way

The song "How It's Going To Be" by Gerard Way explores themes of disillusionment, dissatisfaction, and the desire for something more. The lyrics portray a sense of being trapped in a fabricated world, represented by the city filled with steam and light. This city symbolizes a reality that lacks authenticity and genuine emotion. The protagonist feels like they are living inside a storybook, with paper armor that shields them from the harshness of the world.

The line "They'll hold the match to you this time, and watch the smoke rings fit the crime" suggests that the protagonist is being set up for failure or being used as a scapegoat. The smoke rings represent the consequences of their actions, fitting the crime they are blamed for. This could symbolize how society often places blame on individuals rather than addressing systemic issues.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of fighting against the world with limited resources, like a soldier or a watch that cannot be rewound. This conveys a sense of helplessness and the realization that they are at a disadvantage. The applause from the crowd and the captain's tears illustrate the performative nature of these battles. People cheer for the struggles and sacrifices made by others, but the impact on the individual is often overlooked.

The protagonist reflects on a broken promise, feeling deceived and let down. The line "And you said we'd all be dead by twenty-five" suggests that someone made a promise of a short, intense, and possibly exciting life, but it turns out to be empty words. This broken promise adds to the protagonist's disillusionment and sense of being trapped in a mundane existence.

The longing for something more is expressed in the line "Wishing wells and magic spells and everything between, can you tell me what it's like? Or how it's going to be?" This reflects a desire for a different reality, one where wishes come true and magic exists. The protagonist is uncertain about what the future holds and is searching for answers or guidance on how to navigate their life.

Overall, "How It's Going To Be" explores themes of disillusionment, broken promises, the performative nature of society, and the longing for something more. It portrays the struggle of living in a manufactured reality and the desire to break free and experience a more authentic existence.