+♂ (Plus danshi)
Len Kagamine
The Turbulent Heart of Youth: Analyzing 'Plus Danshi'
The song 'Plus Danshi (Plus Boy)' performed by Len Kagamine, a Vocaloid character, captures the essence of adolescent infatuation and the tumultuous emotions that come with it. The lyrics portray a young boy's thoughts as he finds himself drawn to a girl from a neighboring class, as well as his feelings towards an attractive upperclassman. The repeated denials of his affection ('I'm not into her or anything like that') are a classic example of teenage denial and the confusion that often accompanies first crushes.
The song is filled with playful language and references to school life, such as studying and classroom routines, which are intertwined with the boy's romantic daydreams and desires. The use of mathematical and scientific terms ('dimensional transcendence', 'formulas', 'πr^2') humorously illustrates the boy's attempt to rationalize his feelings, which are, in reality, anything but logical. The energetic and fast-paced delivery of the lyrics reflects the chaotic and often overwhelming nature of teenage emotions.
Culturally, 'Plus Danshi' taps into the universal theme of youthful desire and the struggle between self-control and the urge to give in to one's feelings. The song's playful tone and catchy melody make it relatable and engaging, particularly for those who have experienced the rollercoaster of emotions that is adolescence. The character Len Kagamine, being a Vocaloid, adds an interesting layer to the song, as his artificial voice represents the feelings of real teenagers, bridging the gap between technology and human experience.