Meaning of "How the Story Ends" by Megadeth

At its surface, "How the Story Ends" seems to present a vivid portrayal of the horrors of war and its destructive consequences. The opening lines create a sense of foreboding as the torches of an approaching army become visible on the horizon. The subsequent mention of the growing sound of infantry marching out a hypnotizing rhythm adds to the tension and anticipation of their arrival. As the song progresses, the lyrics emphasize the relentless nature of the impending destruction with references to towns being destroyed, burnt, poisoned, and the earth being scorched.

However, beyond its explicit depiction of warfare, the lyrics can also be interpreted metaphorically, representing the cyclical nature of conflict and the inevitability of destructive human tendencies. The repeated phrase "you may not like it now, but this is how the story ends" implies that violence and devastation are an inherent part of human history and will continue to be so. The flags of war and the drums of death symbolize the rallying cries and propaganda that incite people to engage in conflicts, often without fully comprehending the consequences of their actions. The imagery of poisoned wells and scorched earth further conveys the extent of the damage caused by warfare, leaving no possibility for recovery.

In a broader sense, the lyrics can be seen as a commentary on the futility and senselessness of war. By presenting destruction as an inevitable ending, the song challenges the glorification of violence and calls into question the motivations behind conflicts. It suggests that, ultimately, the cycle of destruction perpetuates itself, leaving behind only devastation and despair.