No More Dream (Japanese Version)
BTS
Chasing Dreams in a Conformist World: BTS's Anthem of Defiance
BTS's "No More Dream (Japanese Version)" is a powerful anthem that challenges societal expectations and encourages young people to pursue their true passions. The song opens with a repeated question, "Omae no big na yume wa nani?" which translates to "What is your big dream?" This question sets the tone for the entire song, urging listeners to reflect on their own aspirations and whether they are living authentically or merely conforming to societal pressures.
The lyrics delve into the internal conflict faced by many young people who feel trapped by the expectations of their parents and society. The lines "I wanna a big house, big cars and big rings / But jitsuwa, I don't have any big dreams" reveal a sense of disillusionment with materialistic goals. The song critiques the conventional path of going to university and securing a stable job, as seen in the lines "Daigaku? Don't worry / I'll go sono uchi nara / Ii yo mama iu tōri ni suru kara," which translates to "University? Don't worry / I'll go eventually / It's okay, I'll do as my mom says." This highlights the pressure to follow a predetermined path rather than pursuing one's true interests.
The chorus, with its repeated question about big dreams, serves as a rallying cry for self-discovery and defiance. The song encourages listeners to break free from societal constraints and find their own way, as emphasized in the lines "Jibun no way, gotta go! / Gachi de one day kara mo / Kama sō! Wanna go! / Don't look back sore igai wa, no!" which translates to "Your own way, gotta go! / Seriously, from one day / Let's go! Wanna go! / Don't look back, nothing else matters!" The song's energetic and rebellious tone is a call to action for young people to take control of their lives and pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may be.
The song also addresses the confusion and uncertainty that often accompany the pursuit of dreams. The lines "Ikiru hōhō mo wakaranai / Toberu hōhō mo wakaranai / Kimeru hōhō mo wakaranai / Yume no hōkō mo wakaranai" translate to "I don't know how to live / I don't know how to fly / I don't know how to decide / I don't know the direction of my dreams." This vulnerability resonates with many young people who are still figuring out their path in life. Ultimately, "No More Dream" is a motivational anthem that encourages self-exploration and the courage to defy societal norms in the pursuit of personal fulfillment.