Rocking Horse

Mika Nakashima's song 'Rocking Horse' is a vibrant and enigmatic exploration of youthful dreams, disillusionment, and the struggle for control in a chaotic world. The lyrics paint a picture of a young girl, referred to as 'sixteen girl,' who is swept off her feet by a prince-like figure, symbolized by the 'rocking horse.' This imagery evokes a sense of fairy-tale romance and the idealistic dreams that often accompany youth. However, the song quickly delves into the complexities and frustrations that come with growing up, as the protagonist grapples with the harsh realities of life.

The recurring lines 'But no money nobody knows' and 'Not truth no education oh my god, I fed up myself' highlight a sense of disillusionment and frustration. These lines suggest that despite the protagonist's dreams and aspirations, she is confronted with the limitations imposed by a lack of resources and societal expectations. The phrase 'no control' further emphasizes the feeling of being overwhelmed and unable to steer one's own destiny. This struggle is a common theme in Nakashima's music, which often explores the tension between dreams and reality.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on her journey from a naive girl to a more mature woman, yet she finds herself repeatedly drawn back into the same patterns of hope and disillusionment. The 'rocking horse' serves as a metaphor for this cyclical nature of her experiences, symbolizing both the allure of her dreams and the repetitive, unsteady motion of her life. The song's blend of Japanese and English lyrics adds to its universal appeal, resonating with listeners who have faced similar struggles in their own lives. Through 'Rocking Horse,' Mika Nakashima captures the bittersweet dance between aspiration and reality, creating a poignant and relatable narrative.