That's How It Goes
Taylor Lyrics

In "That's How It Goes," Taylor explores themes of indecisiveness, self-reflection, and the consequences of one's actions. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and uncertainty, as the singer grapples with the challenges of chasing after something elusive.

The first verse highlights the singer's internal struggle in making a decision. They have been pursuing something for a long time, feeling like they have been running for miles. The fear of missing out or not reaching their goal in time starts to weigh on them, causing anxiety. The line "before the hope begins to wear at the rind" suggests that prolonged hope can lead to disappointment if not realized.

In the chorus, the singer asks for a reminder of how things used to be. They express uncertainty about whether things still follow the same pattern or if it has changed over time. This reflects a desire to go back to a previously familiar and comfortable state.

The second verse touches on the concept of pretending or putting on a facade. The line "shoot the light to pledge allegiance tonight but masquerade your jubilation for peace" suggests that one might publicly support something while inwardly harboring doubts or conflicting emotions. The "clause a safety net" refers to justifying one's actions by convincing oneself that the end result, even if questioned, was worth the freedom it brought.

The repetition of "remind me how it goes?" in the chorus emphasizes the singer's longing to understand the current state of affairs or if they still fit into a larger narrative. They question whether their efforts have been in vain and take responsibility for the time they have possibly wasted.

Finally, the closing verse uses metaphors to convey a deeper meaning. "When the apple falls, it's my neck it rolls down" implies that the singer bears the consequences and faces possible punishment for their actions. "Swallow the core without spitting any pips out" suggests internalizing the consequences without expressing any regret or acknowledging any mistakes. The line "then await the tree growing inside me, another playground fantasy" hints at the idea that the singer is continuously drawn to chasing dreams or illusions, finding solace in imagined realities rather than confronting harsh truths.

Overall, "That's How It Goes" delves into the complexities of decision-making, reflection, and personal accountability, portraying a sense of longing and uncertainty in the face of chasing elusive desires.