This Is How It Goes
Missy Higgins Lyrics
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You'll never sway, and I have nothing left that I can think of to say.
What do you want me to think of my thought?
Bear it in mind, if I cannot believe in me who will I then be?
And so I'll run but not too far, in case you chase me, oh
But this is how it goes, baby.
I'll get angry at your words and I'll go home
So give me a tooth full of that smile,
And know-it-all eyes you show me
Just to prove that you don't need to lose it.
You tell me I'm your fortress of desire
But is it a crime for me to say my own view
And want then not to fear you?
And so I'll run but not too far, in case you chase me
But this is how it goes, baby,
I'll get angry at your words and I'll go home
Then you won't call after me 'cause I'll be back before you know,
You know, yeah I'll be back before you know
La di da di da
And so I'll run but not too far
'Cause this is how it goes, baby,
I'll get angry at your words and
I'll go home, then you won't call after me,
'Cause I'll be back before you know, you know
Yeah, I'll be back before you know
And so I'll run but not too far
The song "This Is How It Goes" by Australian singer-songwriter Missy Higgins seems to describe the frustrations and complexities of a relationship that has reached a deadlock. The lyrics suggest a struggle to communicate and connect with the other person, leading to a sense of claustrophobia and the need to escape. The opening lines, "Suddenly I can't stay in this room. You'll never sway, and I have nothing left that I can think of to say" express a feeling of being trapped and unable to find common ground. The singer questions what the other person wants them to do or say, but ultimately concludes that they need to believe in themselves, implying a lack of confidence or self-doubt.
The chorus, "I'll get angry at your words and I'll go home, and you won't call after me 'cause I'll be back before you know" repeats twice and suggests a pattern of behavior that is both cyclical and frustrating. The singer is easily triggered by the other person's words, leading to anger, and a retreat to their own safe space, only to inevitably return again to the same situation. The second verse shows a desire for validation from the other person, but also a reluctance to be controlled or stifled. The phrase "fortress of desire" suggests that the singer is seen as a prize or possession rather than an equal partner, leading to a feeling of being trapped or suffocated.
Overall, the song portrays the rollercoaster of emotions and conflicts that can arise in a relationship, particularly when there are ongoing communication breakdowns and a struggle for power and control.
Line by Line Meaning
Suddenly I can't stay in this room.
I feel uncomfortable in this situation and need to leave.
You'll never sway, and I have nothing left that I can think of to say.
I cannot change your opinion or behavior, and I am out of ideas.
What do you want me to think of my thought?
What is your reaction to my idea or perspective?
Bear it in mind, if I cannot believe in me who will I then be?
It is crucial for me to believe in myself, or I risk losing my sense of identity.
And so I'll run but not too far, in case you chase me, oh
I will distance myself from you, but not too much to avoid losing you.
But this is how it goes, baby.
This is the pattern of our relationship or interactions.
I'll get angry at your words and I'll go home
Your words will upset me, and I will leave the situation.
And you won't call after me 'cause I'll be back before you know, you know
You won't chase after me because I will return quickly.
So give me a tooth full of that smile,
Show me a genuine and reassuring smile.
And know-it-all eyes you show me
Your confident and knowledgeable gaze.
Just to prove that you don't need to lose it.
You want to demonstrate that you can maintain control and composure.
You tell me I'm your fortress of desire
You express that I am the object of your passion and affection.
But is it a crime for me to say my own view
Can I not express my own opinion without negative consequences?
And want then not to fear you?
I wish to be able to speak my mind without fear of your reaction or judgment.
La di da di da
Nonsensical exclamation or filler.
And so I'll run but not too far
I will continue to distance myself, but not to an extreme degree.
'Cause this is how it goes, baby,
This is how our relationship usually plays out.
I'll get angry at your words and
Your words will continue to upset me.
I'll go home, then you won't call after me,
I will leave the situation, and you will not pursue me.
'Cause I'll be back before you know, you know
I will return quickly and unexpectedly.
Yeah, I'll be back before you know
I will return without warning or preparation.
Lyrics © WORDS & MUSIC A DIV OF BIG DEAL MUSIC LLC
Written by: MELISSA HIGGINS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@cnichols1188
un-f###king believable can not understand how thier could be someone as talented as Missy and her not be on every radio station and music TV channel in the world I mean wow I've been stuck on the comp. for hours just watching and downloading everything I can find on her. Missy thanks for making my world a better place. Keep it coming girl.
@tellytubby468
I love when you spend a night on youtube, and just as you're about to head to bed you come across a little gem like this! Missy, you're so bloody talented!
@guitarsqld1963
Missy sings from the heart. I think this is why her music is just so damn good. Her phrasing and words are first rate.
@HellMasterRod
I dont get tired of watching/listening to this! She's so gorgeous! And her music is so powerful! I will be a really lucky guy if I ever marry someone like her!
@jeeplvr77
She has made me fall in love with music again. Here in the states music has become, uhg, hard to explain. Her music gives me goose bumps....eargasm!
@bobjanson7548
can't get enough of her voice. Old stuff, new stuff, all great
@JuustLikeThat
.....how is she not more well known..? that's my question.
@jeeplvr77
Damn, I thought I was the only person in love with her, her music, and talent!
@ortnitho
Missy i love you !!!!!! Forever !!!!
@kaylene2508
And so I run ... but not too far .... Coz this is how it goes, baby!