Judgement -Shinpan-
Kazuma Kiryu
The Rebel's Creed: Understanding 'Judgement -Shinpan-' by Kazuma Kiryu
The song 'Judgement -Shinpan-' performed by Kazuma Kiryu, a character from the popular video game series 'Yakuza', is a powerful rock anthem that speaks to themes of rebellion, individuality, and justice. The lyrics paint the picture of a 'stray dog' that has deviated from the expected path, symbolizing a person who does not conform to societal norms or expectations. The repeated references to being a 'defective product' or 'stray dog' suggest a sense of pride in one's unique identity and a refusal to be tamed or controlled by others.
The chorus, with its cries of 'breakin' the law' and 'breakin' the world', embodies a spirit of defiance and the desire to break free from constraints. The song's protagonist is not interested in being an obedient 'yes man' and instead finds their own sense of justice outside the conventional rules. This is further emphasized by the line '六法全書じゃ縛れない' which translates to 'cannot be bound by the six codes of law', indicating a rejection of strict legal or moral codes in favor of a more personal, perhaps more compassionate, form of justice.
The repeated imagery of a raised, clenched fist throughout the song serves as a symbol of resistance and the power of personal judgement. Despite experiencing pain and loss, the protagonist remains unyielding, suggesting that true justice is not something that can be compromised or diluted. The song resonates with themes of resilience and the fight for what one believes is right, even in the face of adversity. It's a call to arms for those who feel marginalized or oppressed to stand up and assert their own judgement.