Meaning of "This Used To Be The Future" by Pet Shop Boys

The lyrics of this song explore the disillusionment and disappointment that comes from the gap between the idealized vision of the future and the harsh reality of the present. The artist reminisces about the past excitement of where technology and progress were leading us, only to now be faced with a world plagued by problems stemming from religion, nuclear energy, and unfulfilled promises. The call to tear everything down and start over symbolizes a desire for a fresh beginning, a chance to correct the mistakes of the past and create a new future without the burdens of the old one.

The mention of science fiction turning into a sort of suicide pact speaks to the idea that the advancements we hoped for have now become threats to our existence. The connection between religion and nuclear energy in causing problems further emphasizes the complex interplay of belief systems and technological power in shaping our world. Ultimately, the song raises questions about how we navigate the fallout of a future that did not turn out as we had hoped, and how we can move forward in the face of these challenges.