Happy Birthday

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The Melancholy of Unrequited Love in 'Happy Birthday' by Back Number

Back Number's song 'Happy Birthday' delves into the bittersweet emotions of unrequited love, wrapped in the context of a birthday. The lyrics begin with the protagonist reflecting on the passage of time and the inevitability of aging, a theme that sets a somber tone. The protagonist is jolted awake by a phone call, only to be disappointed when it isn't from the person they long for. This moment encapsulates the essence of unfulfilled expectations and the yearning for a connection that remains out of reach.

The song's chorus reveals the protagonist's deep desire for the object of their affection to reciprocate their feelings. They fantasize about a scenario where, by some mistake, the person they love might fall for them. However, the reality is starkly different, as the absence of this person makes the world feel suffocating. The protagonist's struggle is further highlighted by their inability to find a valid reason to embrace the one they love, despite being able to come up with trivial conversations. This internal conflict underscores the pain of unrequited love, where the heart's desires are at odds with reality.

As the song progresses, the protagonist acknowledges their lack of understanding of love, yet they are well-acquainted with the pain that comes with it. They express a desire to share this knowledge with the person they love, but ironically, they realize that they are the ones who need to learn. The song concludes with the protagonist's wish for a simpler, more straightforward relationship, free from the complexities and misunderstandings that currently define their interactions. The repeated refrain of 'Happy Birthday' serves as a poignant reminder of the protagonist's solitary celebration of their feelings, marking another year of unreciprocated love.

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  1. Christmas Song
  2. Shiawase
  3. Watagashi
  4. Happy End
  5. Hanataba
  6. Koi
  7. Mabataki
  8. Happy Birthday
  9. Takane No Hanakosan
  10. Suiheisen
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