Kemono No Kenomo

Asian Kung-fu Generation's song 'Kemono No Kenomo' delves into themes of alienation, longing, and the struggle for connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist feeling like an outcast or 'nokemono,' a term that can be translated to 'misfit' or 'reject.' This sense of being an outsider is further emphasized by the imagery of becoming a 'waremono,' or 'fragile object,' during the night, suggesting vulnerability and a heightened sense of isolation.

The song's chorus expresses a deep yearning to transform into a 'kemono,' or 'beast,' to seize the person they desire. This metaphorical transformation into a beast represents a desire to break free from societal constraints and inhibitions, to act on raw, primal instincts. The protagonist wishes to escape the mundane and monotonous days ('taikutsu na hibi') and hopes that by doing so, they might see the person they care about smile, even if that person seems indifferent or unapproachable ('aisou no nai kimi').

Throughout the song, there's a recurring theme of unspoken emotions and the frustration of being unable to articulate one's feelings. The protagonist is burdened with 'taisetsu na omoi,' or 'precious feelings,' that they cannot express, leading to a sense of perpetual howling or crying out. This inability to communicate effectively isolates them further, making them feel like a 'kemono' or beast, separated from their peers and the world around them. The song captures the essence of feeling trapped in one's own skin, yearning for connection, and the struggle to break free from the chains of alienation.