The Way It Is

The Strokes' song 'The Way It Is' delves into the complexities of relationships and the inevitability of certain outcomes. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that is on the brink of collapse, with the protagonist coming to terms with the harsh reality that some things are beyond their control. The opening lines, 'She was still sleeping; the problem will stay / One more day,' suggest a sense of stagnation and unresolved issues that linger despite the passage of time. This sets the tone for a narrative of acceptance and resignation.

The chorus, 'I wish it was not true / But that's the way it is / It's not your fault / That's the way it is,' underscores a theme of inevitability. The repetition of 'that's the way it is' serves as a mantra for accepting circumstances as they are, even when they are less than ideal. The protagonist acknowledges that the situation is not anyone's fault, but rather a consequence of life's unpredictable nature. This acceptance is further emphasized by the line, 'I'm sick of you / And that's the way it is,' indicating a sense of frustration but also a recognition that some things cannot be changed.

The song also touches on the theme of moving on, as seen in the lines, 'Wednesday is over, it's over again / Said my goodbyes to the life we won't spend / Together.' This signifies the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new one, albeit with a sense of loss and regret. The closing lines, 'But that's not your problem / That's not a problem / That's not my problem / That's not your problem,' suggest a final detachment and a realization that both parties must move forward independently. The Strokes use a blend of melancholic lyrics and upbeat instrumentation to convey a message that is both poignant and relatable, capturing the essence of accepting life's inevitable changes.