Things to Come

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a stark picture of escalating conflict, starting with societal divisions like "war between races, war between lines." This external strife is mirrored by an internal, "something that lays out deep inside," which the narrator identifies as the "deadliest one." The repeated question, "how many must leave, before we realize?" underscores a desperate plea for awareness amidst mounting destruction and loss. The core of the song lies in a terrifying premonition. The narrator "caught a glimpse of things to come," a vision so disturbing it "jolted" them. This glimpse culminates in a violent act: "One man stops and launches an explosion." This singular, explosive moment feels like a tipping point, a manifestation of the deeper wars the lyrics describe. The second verse grounds this apocalyptic vision in a specific, grim scene. The "half past three" and "streets are wet" create a somber atmosphere, suggesting a recent tragedy. The phrase "no good is up again" and the image of "blood on the front seat" point to irreversible damage, signaling "the beginning of the end." The solemn "God bless the dead" offers a moment of somber reflection amidst the chaos. What makes these lyrics so potent is their directness and the chilling inevitability they convey. The repetition of "I caught a glimpse" emphasizes the inescapable nature of this foreboding future. The lyrics don't shy away from violence, presenting it as a consequence of unchecked division, leaving the listener with a profound sense of unease about what lies ahead.