Kanden

Kenshi Yonezu's song 'Kanden' captures the essence of youthful rebellion and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a restless night, where the protagonist feels lost and unfulfilled. The opening lines, 'にげだしたい 夜の往来 行方は未だ不明' (I want to run away, the night’s traffic, destination still unknown), set the tone for a journey of self-discovery and escape from the mundane. The use of onomatopoeic words like 'ワンワンワン' (wan wan wan) and 'にゃんにゃんにゃん' (nyan nyan nyan) adds a playful yet poignant touch, highlighting the protagonist's inner turmoil and desire for something more.

The song delves into themes of existentialism and the search for truth. Lines like 'しんじつもどうとくもこうさしない いかれたよるでも' (Truth and morality don’t intersect, even on a crazy night) suggest a disillusionment with societal norms and a yearning for genuine connection. The protagonist and their companion find solace in each other, laughing and clapping hands, away from the prying eyes of the world. This camaraderie is a beacon of hope in an otherwise bleak landscape, symbolizing the importance of human connection in navigating life's uncertainties.

The recurring motif of speed and lightning, 'いなずまのようにいきたいだけ' (I just want to live like lightning), underscores the urgency and intensity of youth. The protagonist's desire to live life at a breakneck pace, unburdened by the past or future, reflects a universal longing for freedom and self-expression. The song's melancholic yet hopeful tone resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations and the desire to break free. 'Kanden' is a powerful anthem for those who seek to find their own path, embracing the fleeting moments of brilliance that life offers.