Promised Land

L'Arc~en~Ciel's song "Promised Land" paints a vivid and somewhat dystopian picture of a world filled with contradictions and illusions. The lyrics open with an image of colorful flowers blooming, symbolizing beauty and hope. However, this hopeful imagery is quickly juxtaposed with the notion of dreams that can lead one astray, suggesting that the beauty is deceptive. The mention of endless rain and the inevitability of departure hints at a sense of futility and the transient nature of life.

The song delves deeper into themes of deception and false promises. The 'hungry wolves' that 'fake love' and the plea to 'believe in me' reflect a world where trust is scarce and manipulation is rampant. The unending flames and the farewell after a delayed awakening symbolize the consequences of living in a world built on lies and false hopes. The lyrics suggest that nurturing love with 'strange words' is futile, and the future is irretrievable, emphasizing a sense of hopelessness.

The recurring phrase 'devil's walk in the strawberry fields' serves as a powerful metaphor for the corruption of innocence and the perversion of beauty. The 'tears freshly squeezed' offered for consumption highlight the exploitation of genuine emotions. The song questions the possibility of salvation in a desolate world, leaving the listener to ponder the true nature of the 'Promised Land.' The historical references to conflict and the call to believe in miracles further underscore the song's exploration of disillusionment and the search for meaning in a fractured reality.