Meaning and Lyrics of What a Time To Be Alive by Fall Out Boy

“What a Time To Be Alive” by Fall Out Boy seems to reflect on the complexities and challenges of modern life, particularly in the context of the year 2019. The song opens with a sense of reflection, questioning if the past will be seen nostalgically in the future. The mention of dreams bursting at the seams suggests a sense of disillusionment or shattered expectations.

The lyrics touch upon themes of societal chaos and uncertainty, symbolized by the notion of livestreaming the apocalypse and being on a sinking ship. This imagery could represent the feeling of being overwhelmed by the world’s troubles and the struggle to find stability and meaning in tumultuous times.

The reference to serotonin and a lightning bolt brain in the pre-chorus conveys a struggle with mental health and inner turmoil amidst an external environment that may seem exciting or intense but lacks personal fulfillment or peace.

The chorus expresses a desire for human connection and intimacy, even in a world where individuals may feel isolated or disconnected. The neon imagery and the repetition of “what a time to be alive” could suggest a simultaneous sense of vibrancy and unease in contemporary society.

The mention of avoiding one’s own thoughts through distractions like livestreaming the apocalypse and seeking external validation reflects a common coping mechanism in dealing with personal struggles or existential dread.

The guitar solo adds an emotive layer to the song, enhancing the feelings of introspection and intensity present in the lyrics.

The bridge seems to emphasize the ironic juxtaposition of finding joy or significance in a period of uncertainty and upheaval, highlighting the paradoxical nature of the human experience.

The second chorus introduces the idea of feeling suffocated by circumstances, symbolized by the quarantine blues and the vulture imagery implying a sense of predatory anticipation towards one’s struggles.

The outro brings the song full circle, echoing the opening lines about looking back, creating a cyclical narrative that reinforces the themes of reflection, uncertainty, and the emotional complexity of living in the present moment.