Is This The Only Way
The Kinks · Other Songs - The Kinks
For the wheel keeps turning,
Is there no other way,
Ooh, heart is yearning.
There is hope in your eyes,
And all the people say,
You're a star,
And you're playing the part,
But how long do you think it will last,
I know you, you're not so innocent,
No way out,
Well not by your intellect,
Who are you,
With no time to resurrect,
Who are you,
You say you're the president.
I can't wait any longer,
Ooh, my love's getting stronger,
Ooh,
Why do we need you so,
Is there no other way,
To lead our children home,
There is a light that shines on you,
You're in a hole and I'm in it too.
Chorus: is this the only way,
For the wheel keeps turning,
Is there no other way,
Ooh, heart is yearning.
Aii your world's a disguise,
For big business deals, oil bribes,
Clever men, but where are the wise,
Cause in reality, freedom lies,
Who are you, smug in your intellect,
Dishing out old fashioned politics,
Money, war, solves everything it seems,
Nothin' new, same as it's ever been.
I can't wait any longer,
Ooh, my love's getting stronger,
Ooh,
Why do we need you so,
Is there no other way,
To lead our children home,
There is a light that shines on you,
You're in a hole and I'm in it too.
Oh, we can't let it go.
Is this the only way.
Is This The Only Way
Is This The Only Way stands as a poignant song in The Kinks' expansive catalogue, reflecting the band's signature blend of social observation and melodic rock. Emerging during a period where the group frequently explored themes of alienation and routine, the track captures the weary resignation often found in their mid-career recordings. While the song shares thematic DNA with their broader body of work, it maintains a distinct emotional weight through its restrained arrangement and direct lyrical delivery. The Kinks have long been celebrated for their ability to distill complex human experiences into accessible pop structures, and this recording exemplifies that enduring strength. It remains a compelling listen for those interested in the band's exploration of everyday struggles and the search for meaning within a changing world.