How Many Times

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling with deception, both from others and perhaps from themselves. The repeated question, "How many times?" suggests a pattern of repeated actions or failures, possibly related to a failed plan or a relationship built on falsehoods. The initial lines about a "disguise" hint at a hidden truth or an attempt to present a false front, which is directly questioned by the narrator. The central tension seems to revolve around the inability to reconcile what was intended with what actually happened, especially when lies are involved. The phrase "You can't decide how to divide / What you laid out" points to a confusion or a breakdown in understanding the consequences of one's actions or words. This is amplified by the overwhelming repetition of "Set out to," which underscores a persistent, yet ultimately unfulfilled, intention or goal. The most striking element is the pervasive theme of "lies." The lyrics emphasize that these are not accidental untruths but "Lies that you thought out," implying deliberate fabrication. This calculated deception is what ultimately leads to exposure, as indicated by "your shaking eyes / Get you caught out." The contrast between the carefully constructed lies and the involuntary physical tells creates a powerful image of inevitable failure. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their stark portrayal of self-deception and its unraveling. The relentless repetition of "Set out to" and the blunt accusation of "Lies that you thought out" create a sense of futility and inevitability. The brief moment of "And it's alright" offers a fleeting, almost ironic, respite before the cycle of deception is re-emphasized, leaving the listener with a feeling of unresolved tension and the weight of unspoken truths.