Asphyxia (English Version)

Cö Shu Nie's 'Asphyxia (English Version)' delves into the depths of emotional and psychological turmoil, painting a vivid picture of a person trapped in a state of despair and numbness. The song opens with imagery of being 'shut into night' and 'falling to nowhere alone,' setting a tone of isolation and hopelessness. The metaphor of 'the child drowned in asphyxiation' suggests a loss of innocence and a suffocating sense of entrapment, both physically and emotionally.

The lyrics continue to explore feelings of lethargy and helplessness, describing the world as 'cold like stone' and 'tragic.' This sense of despair is compounded by the realization that there is 'no way out,' a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has felt overwhelmed by their circumstances. The repeated questioning of why the narrator cannot 'learn to be free' highlights a deep-seated frustration and a yearning for liberation from their emotional chains.

The song also touches on themes of betrayal and disillusionment, as the narrator grapples with the pain inflicted by someone they once believed in. The line 'I believed the pain you gave me could be love' speaks to the confusion and hurt that can arise from toxic relationships. The mention of 'Schadenfreud'—a German term for deriving pleasure from another's misfortune—adds another layer of complexity, suggesting that the narrator feels discarded and mocked. Ultimately, 'Asphyxia' is a powerful exploration of the struggle for freedom and the search for meaning in a world that often feels indifferent and cruel.