Motor Pool

Asian Kung-fu Generation's song 'Motor Pool' is a contemplative and atmospheric piece that delves into themes of solitude, introspection, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night-time journey, both literal and metaphorical, as the protagonist navigates through a quiet, almost desolate landscape. The opening lines describe a 'swinging bag' and a 'farm machine sinking into the ground,' setting a tone of abandonment and stillness. This imagery suggests a world that has been left behind, where the usual hustle and bustle have come to a halt, allowing for a moment of reflection.

The recurring motif of the 'motor pool' and 'colorless car' symbolizes a state of inertia and waiting. The motor pool, typically a place where vehicles are stored and maintained, becomes a metaphor for the protagonist's own state of mind—stuck in a liminal space, neither here nor there. The 'colorless car' further emphasizes this sense of stagnation and lack of direction. Despite this, there is a sense of anticipation in the line 'the night is just beginning,' hinting at the potential for change or movement.

The song also touches on the theme of human connection, or the lack thereof. The protagonist mentions not seeing a 'smiling face' for a long time and laughing 'with all their might' despite being alone. This juxtaposition highlights the loneliness that can accompany even the most vibrant of nights. The mention of 'pet dogs playing noisily' and 'humming a song they don't even like' adds to the sense of disconnection and searching for meaning in mundane activities. The final lines, which describe looking at the clouds on a moonlit night and seeing a distant airplane, evoke a sense of longing and the endless possibilities that lie beyond the immediate, colorless surroundings.