Tell Me
hide
The Search for Self in a Fragmented World
The song 'Tell Me' by hide delves into the complex themes of identity, self-perception, and the struggle to communicate one's true self. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their sense of self, feeling fragmented and disconnected. The opening lines, 'Hana-yaida kaze ni sarasarete mo / Toketeyukenai jibun o mitsumeteiru,' suggest a person who is exposed to the elements, yet unable to dissolve or change, staring at their unchanging self. This imagery sets the tone for a song that explores the internal conflict of maintaining one's identity amidst external pressures.
The recurring plea, 'Tell me, somebody tell me, please tell me,' underscores a deep yearning for understanding and validation. The protagonist is searching for answers, struggling to find their voice and be heard. The lines 'Kokoro to wa ura ruku no Pantomaimu / Hokorubiteiru kizu o umeru no wa / Boku ga boku de arri tsusukeru tame' highlight the dissonance between the heart and the mind, likening it to a pantomime where the true self is hidden behind a facade. The wounds and scars are a testament to the ongoing battle to remain true to oneself.
The song also touches on the theme of unrequited love or a distorted form of love, as seen in the lines 'Ibitsu na koi o motomete mo / Kotaenaku imi mo naku musaboru dake.' This suggests a desperate search for love that ultimately leads to emptiness and a lack of fulfillment. The repeated questioning of whether the protagonist can see themselves or be seen by others, 'Boku ni wa boku ga mienai,' reflects a profound existential crisis. The closing lines, 'Singin' My song for me. / Singin' your song for you,' imply a mutual yet isolated journey of self-expression and understanding, where each person sings their own song, hoping to be heard and understood.