Way of Life
Peter Hook and the Light Lyrics

The lyrics of "Way of Life" by Peter Hook and the Light delve into themes of displacement, longing, nostalgia, and questioning the nature of existence. The singer of the song reflects on their journey to a new place, feeling like a stranger among unfamiliar faces. This sense of disorientation is compounded by the realization that the once-familiar surroundings have been transformed, evoking a feeling of loss and disconnect. The lyrics convey a deep introspection about the uncertainties and changes that life can bring, with the singer pondering whether this unsettling reality is truly what life is supposed to be.

The song captures the emotional weight of being uprooted from familiarity and thrust into the unknown. The singer grapples with the passage of time, lamenting the swift changes that have taken place and the feeling of being out of sync with the world around them. The imagery of a once-beloved place now altered beyond recognition is poignant, as it reflects the universal experience of witnessing the evolution and decay of memories and places. The lyrics convey a profound sense of loss and bewilderment, as the singer struggles to come to terms with the upheaval that has occurred in their absence.

The chorus serves as a recurring refrain of introspection and contemplation, with the singer posing the rhetorical question of whether this chaotic and unfamiliar existence is the true essence of life. The repetition of the phrase "Is this the way life's meant to be?" underscores the theme of existential questioning and seeking meaning in the face of upheaval and uncertainty. The singer's musings on the nature of existence and one's place in the world are interwoven with a wistful longing for a simpler time, perhaps symbolized by the reference to 1981 and the desire to see a familiar face amidst the desolation of the present.

The song's final verses evoke a sense of resignation and acceptance, as the singer navigates the ruins of a town that has lost its soul and its voice. The juxtaposition of "ivory towers and plastic flowers" paints a vivid picture of a world devoid of authenticity and depth, further emphasizing the singer's yearning for a past that held deeper meaning and connection. The closing repetitions of "wonder, wonder, wonder" underscore the ongoing search for understanding and meaning in a world that seems increasingly fragmented and disenchanted. The song's haunting melody and introspective lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences of displacement, change, and the eternal quest for purpose in the face of life's uncertainties.