Meaning of Future 86 by Bomb the Music Industry!

The Complexity of Desire: Unpacking the Meaning of "Future 86" by Bomb the Music Industry!

I remember the first time I listened to "Future 86" by Bomb the Music Industry!. The opening lyrics, "We can take the SS Ambition to nowhere, / Or we can take the SS Stupid Goals to nowhere, / Or we can take the SS Bullshit Dreams to nowhere," struck a chord within me. As I delved deeper into the song, I began to unravel the intricacies of the narrative, the themes of longing, sacrifice, and the complexities of relationships. In this article, we’ll dive into the meaning of "Future 86," exploring the protagonist’s desires, doubts, and ultimate acceptance of the potential consequences of their choices.

A Vision of the Future

The song’s narrator envisions a future with their loved one, a future where they’re willing to make drastic changes and sacrifices to be together. The line "Let’s run away to Hawaii, / Using our band funds to afford the journey" becomes a symbol of their strong desire to be with this person, to leave everything behind and start anew. This fantasy world, where they’re together, is a source of inspiration and motivation, but as the song progresses, it becomes clear that reality may not be so kind.

The Complexity of Sacrifice

As the narrator begins to contemplate the practicalities of their situation, they acknowledge the need for stability and the possibility of getting a temporary job in New York City. The line "I’m not being fickle, just realistic" highlights their understanding of the harsh realities of their decision. This sense of practicality is a turning point in the song, marking a shift from fantasy to reality. The narrator’s willingness to sacrifice their music, a central part of their identity, emphasizes their commitment to the relationship. However, they also acknowledge that this sacrifice may not be enough to sustain the relationship, as disagreements and resentment may arise.

The Weight of Regret

The chorus of "Future 86" becomes a poignant expression of the narrator’s doubts and perhaps regret. "Were we worth it? Were we worth it? Were we worth it?" becomes a refrain, symbolizing the weight of their decision. The prospect of never seeing their loved one again, while driving towards the Pacific, represents a sense of lost opportunity and distance. The song’s narrator is no longer the optimistic idealist; they’re a pragmatic, possibly regretful individual grappling with the consequences of their choices.

Postcards and Lost Connections

The second verse of "Future 86" reveals the complexities of the relationship in greater detail. The narrator expresses a willingness to give up their music for their partner, highlighting their commitment to the relationship. However, the mention of postcards that are never sent reveals a desire to communicate and express feelings, but ultimately, the inability to follow through. This loss of connection is a poignant reflection of the fragility of human relationships.

Uncertainty and Disappointment

The second chorus echoes the narrator’s longing for something meaningful and lasting, acknowledging the transient nature of their current situation. The SS Ambition to nowhere, SS Stupid Goals to nowhere, and SS Bullshit Dreams to nowhere serve as a powerful metaphor, illustrating the uncertainty and disappointment that accompanies the pursuit of impossible goals. The song’s conclusion, "And maybe I’ll never see your face again," underscores the potential loss and longing that permeates the song.

Conclusion

"Future 86" is a powerful exploration of the complexities and sacrifices inherent in intimate relationships. Through its poignant lyrics and relatable themes, the song creates a sense of intimacy with the listener, immersing us in the world of the narrator and their struggles. This article has delved into the meaning of "Future 86," uncovering the protagonist’s desires, doubts, and acceptance of the potential consequences of their choices. As I look back on my own experience with this song, I’m reminded of the fragility of human connections and the importance of being open to the complexities that come with loving someone. Ultimately, "Future 86" is a reminder to cherish the relationships in our lives, while acknowledging the uncertainty and impermanence that accompanies them.

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