Water
Exist†trace
The Depths of Acceptance and Rejection in 'Water' by Exist†trace
Exist†trace's song 'Water' delves into the complex emotions surrounding acceptance, rejection, and the struggle for identity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a newborn's experience, metaphorically represented through the imagery of water and the sensations of warmth and coldness. The song opens with the sounds of a heartbeat through water, symbolizing the beginning of life and the comfort of the womb. This initial warmth and security are soon contrasted with the harsh reality of rejection and the pain of being unwanted, as expressed in the lines 'newborn baby was dropped' and 'grudged words, flooding more, and more.'
The recurring theme of time ('toki ga kuru') suggests an inevitable confrontation with reality. The lyrics address someone who refuses to accept the newborn, leading to a physical and emotional breaking point ('genkai ga karada wo saku'). This rejection is not just a personal experience but a universal one, reflecting the broader human condition of seeking acceptance and love. The song's protagonist, despite being unwanted, still yearns for love and connection, as seen in the plea 'demo itsuka ai shite hoshii' (but someday, I want to be loved).
The imagery of a 'chiisa na yuganda karada' (small, distorted body) that cannot be embraced highlights the physical and emotional deformities caused by rejection. The song questions what more one could desire beyond physical perfection, hinting at the deeper need for emotional and spiritual acceptance. The final lines, where the protagonist feels a fleeting sense of affection for their 'kegare no nai karada' (pure body), underscore the tragic beauty of innocence and the longing for unconditional love. Exist†trace, known for their gothic and visual kei influences, use these dark and poignant themes to explore the depths of human emotion and the universal quest for belonging.