Meaning of "How Did It Come To This" by Take That

"How Did It Come To This" explores the narrator's feelings of disconnect and alienation from the world around them. They begin by addressing the assumption that they may be schizophrenic and out of touch, acknowledging that there is truth to that statement. However, they explain that it is their way of coping and keeping track of their experiences in this chaotic world. The lyrics also criticize society's obsession with reality television and superficiality, symbolized by the girl in Camden town who worries about which dress to wear and how to smile. The narrator questions how they ended up feeling this way, overwhelmed by all the noise, lights, and expectations. They express their confusion and desire for connection, wondering if anyone has truly seen their face or taken the time to know them. The mention of being slightly OCD suggests a need for control and order in an otherwise chaotic reality. The narrator uses compartmentalization as a coping mechanism, trying to make sense of the overwhelming amount of stimuli they encounter. Overall, the lyrics highlight the narrator's struggle to find their place in society and to maintain a sense of identity amidst the pressures and expectations they face.