Narcissist

Kaoru Akimoto's song "Narcissist" delves into the complex and often misunderstood world of self-obsession and beauty. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply enamored with their own reflection, to the point where they seem to live in a world of their own creation. The opening lines describe a face that resembles a painting, adorned with a resigned smile, suggesting a sense of detachment from reality. This person finds beauty in their memories, which have become like stories, further emphasizing their disconnect from the present.

The song's chorus repeatedly highlights the idea that a narcissist becomes more beautiful, attracting the gazes of passing men. This beauty, however, is superficial and isolating. The lyrics suggest that while the narcissist may appear captivating, their heart remains untouched and merely observed from a distance. This creates a poignant contrast between external allure and internal loneliness. The imagery of the narcissist kissing their own reflection in a shop window underscores their self-absorption and the ephemeral nature of their existence.

Akimoto also explores the vulnerability of the narcissist, likening them to a child sitting alone in a corner, hugging their knees. This image evokes a sense of sadness and fragility, as the narcissist's shallow sighs hint at deeper, unspoken sorrows. The song questions what dreams they have during their shallow sleep and why they call out their own name as if in a delirium. The repeated refrain of the narcissist becoming more beautiful, yet remaining untouched, encapsulates the tragic irony of their existence. They are admired but never truly known, their beauty a barrier rather than a bridge to genuine connection.