That's The Way It Goes

George Harrison's song 'That's The Way It Goes' delves into the disillusionment and superficiality that often accompany the pursuit of power and wealth. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of various characters, each representing different facets of society, who are caught up in the illusions of success and material gain. The recurring line, 'That's the way it goes,' serves as a resigned acknowledgment of these harsh realities, suggesting a sense of inevitability and acceptance of the flawed nature of human ambition.

The first verse introduces a man who is distressed over his financial losses, symbolizing the fragility and unpredictability of the stock market. His fear and confusion highlight the instability that often accompanies the pursuit of wealth. The second verse shifts to a man who seeks to acquire land through dubious means, using Krugerrands, a South African gold coin. This character's willingness to 'stoop so low' underscores the moral compromises people make in their quest for power and control.

In the third verse, Harrison describes an actor who aspires to embody the ideal of a 'shining city on a hill,' a metaphor for ultimate success and perfection. However, the actor's blindness and superficiality reveal the emptiness behind the facade of fame. The final verse introduces a more spiritual dimension, with a fire that 'burns away the lies' and a 'spiritual eye' that sees beyond the material world. This suggests a deeper truth and understanding that transcends the superficial pursuits of the previous characters, yet remains concealed from those who are caught up in their illusions.

Through these vivid character sketches and metaphors, Harrison critiques the societal obsession with wealth, power, and fame, while also hinting at a more profound spiritual truth that lies beneath the surface. The song's reflective tone and resigned acceptance of these realities invite listeners to question their own values and the true cost of their ambitions.