Released: 2023
Fall Out Boy’s “What a Time To Be Alive” is a strikingly reflective and vibrant anthem that wrestles with the tumultuous reality of recent times, particularly the year 2019 leading into the chaotic realms of 2020. This track delves deep into the complexities of modern existence, juxtaposing the bright, almost incandescent moments of life with the darker, more introspective aspects of mental health and societal upheaval. At its core, it’s a vivid narrative of surviving and witnessing history in the making, all while grappling with personal demons and the universal human need for connection.
The song kicks off by setting a tone of nostalgia mixed with a dose of reality check. It poses a rhetorical question about the future—how we might look back at 2019 as the last semblance of ‘normalcy’ before our collective dreams started “bursting at the seams.” This line alone captures the pre-pandemic innocence and the unforeseen global shift that would redefine our lives. The repeated affirmations of “We’re out here and we’re ready” to “livestream the apocalypse” speak to a generation accustomed to oversharing and witnessing world events unfold in real-time, for better or for worse, through their screens. It’s a raw acknowledgment of the grim situation yet carries a defiance, a readiness to face whatever comes head-on, albeit with a hint of irony.
As the song progresses, Fall Out Boy touches on the deeply personal struggle with mental health, “‘Cause everything is lit except my serotonin, yeah.” This line is particularly compelling, using the term lit—often associated with fun, excitement, or being under the influence—to underscore the contrast between outward appearances and internal battles. “My lightning bolt brain” could be interpreted as a metaphor for the tumultuous thoughts and feelings one experiences with mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Yet, amidst this turmoil, there’s a yearning for human connection, “But, baby please, I just need someone to hold me.” It’s a raw, vulnerable plea that resonates deeply, acknowledging the comfort found in the simple act of being held, even in the absence of deep personal connection.
The chorus, with its repetitive declaration, “What a time to be alive,” serves as both a celebration and a lament. It’s a phrase that captures the duality of human experience—the marvel at our own resilience and the incredulity at the absurdity of the situations we find ourselves in. In the bridge, there’s a poignant recognition of isolation’s toll, the “quarantine blues,” and a nod to the environmental metaphor of “vultures getting too full to fly,” suggesting an overburdened, decaying world. Yet, even as the song traverses these dark themes, it maintains a pulsating beat and an infectious melody, encapsulating the chaotic beauty of living through unprecedented times.
In essence, “What a Time To Be Alive” by Fall Out Boy is a multifaceted reflection on the era we’re navigating. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the search for light in the darkest of times, and the bittersweet recognition of being part of a pivotal moment in history. Through its clever lyrics and vibrant energy, the song invites listeners to acknowledge the harsh realities we face while also finding solace in shared experiences and the simple, yet profound human connections we forge amidst the chaos.
