Song meaning of Anyway by Genesis

The song "Anyway" by Genesis explores themes of mortality, the fleeting nature of life, and the search for meaning and purpose in the face of death. 

In the first verse, the lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of the inevitable end. The imagery of the chef and the running man being "out of breath" suggests that time is running out, and the protagonist is feeling the weight of their age. The line "it's back to ash, 'Now you've had your flash, boy'" implies that life is brief and ultimately returns to nothingness. The reference to the rocks compressing blood and flesh into oil and coal speaks to death's role in the cycle of life and its ability to enrich the earth. 

The second verse delves into the existential questions of the afterlife and the relationship between heaven and earth. The mention of a pale horse and a train alludes to Death as a means of transportation, suggesting that the protagonist is caught between the realms of life and death. The frustration in the line "Damn it all! Does Earth plug a hole in Heaven or Heaven plug a hole in Earth?" reflects a desire for clarity and understanding in the face of mortality. The lyrics also highlight the irony of being profound and introspective when ultimately everything is transient and fading away. 

In the final verse, there is a longing for escape and transcendence. The pull on the rope and the desire to be "exploding in space" symbolize a yearning for freedom from the earthly constraints of mortality. The protagonist wishes for a different fate, to not simply be buried and forgotten, but to have a lasting impact. The reference to God's elastic acre suggests a desire for an expansive afterlife and a belief in the possibility of a spiritual realm.

Overall, "Anyway" presents a contemplative and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning in the face of mortality. The lyrics evoke feelings of reflection, resignation, and a longing for transcendence.