Shapes of Things to Come

Song Meaning

Gary Moore's rendition of "Shapes of Things to Come" isn't just a sonic blast from the past; it's a chilling premonition rendered in blues-rock fury. The lyrics, stark and almost nihilistic, paint a picture of a world on the brink, where the very "shapes of things" inspire only contempt. This isn't mere teenage angst; it’s a weary resignation to a future that seems pre-ordained for disappointment. The core question—"Will time make man more wise?"—hangs heavy, unanswered, suggesting a deep skepticism about humanity's capacity for growth or learning from its mistakes. The singer is trapped within his own consciousness, his senses overwhelmed and his mind searching for something that won't "disgrace" humankind. It's a search that seems destined to fail, given the opening declaration of disgust. The cyclical guitar riffs mirror the circular, inescapable nature of this despair. The haunting refrain, "Come tomorrow, will I be older? / Come tomorrow, maybe a soldier? / Come tomorrow, will I be bolder than today?" underscores the anxiety of facing an uncertain future. The possibility of becoming a "soldier" speaks to the looming threat of conflict and the potential loss of innocence. The yearning to be "bolder" hints at a desire to confront these challenges, but it's a fragile hope, easily crushed by the overwhelming sense of dread that permeates the song. Moore’s guitar work amplifies this feeling, with each note a cry of anguish against the backdrop of impending doom. Ultimately, the song's meaning isn't about specific events or political commentary. Instead, "Shapes of Things to Come" is a profound exploration of existential dread and the human condition. It’s about the struggle to find meaning and hope in a world that often seems intent on self-destruction. The final verse returns to the opening lines, closing the circle and reinforcing the sense of inevitability. Moore leaves us not with answers, but with a lingering unease and the unsettling realization that the "shapes of things" may, indeed, be teaching us to despise.