Kagerou

One Ok Rock's song 'Kagerou' delves into the complex emotions of unspoken love and the internal struggle of expressing true feelings. The title 'Kagerou' translates to 'heat haze' or 'mirage,' symbolizing the ephemeral and elusive nature of the protagonist's emotions. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and hesitation, as the protagonist grapples with their inability to communicate their feelings to the person they love. This internal conflict is a central theme, highlighting the difficulty of being honest with oneself and others.

The song begins with the protagonist reflecting on their feelings, which are described as a 'kagerou,' something that is visible yet intangible. This metaphor sets the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing the fleeting and uncertain nature of their emotions. The protagonist stands still, unable to move forward or express their feelings, caught in a cycle of self-doubt and fear of rejection. The lyrics 'まだじぶんにすなおになれない' (I still can't be honest with myself) and 'ただことばにできないじぶんがうずいているの' (I just can't put it into words) capture this internal struggle vividly.

As the song progresses, the protagonist becomes more aware of their feelings but remains paralyzed by the fear of being misunderstood or rejected. The lyrics 'きらわれるのがこわくてってかんがえたときにはあいしてた' (When I realized I was afraid of being disliked, I was already in love) poignantly express the realization that their love has grown despite their attempts to hide it. The song's repetition of 'あいしてた' (I loved you) at the end underscores the depth of their emotions and the regret of not having expressed them sooner. 'Kagerou' is a powerful exploration of the vulnerability and complexity of unspoken love, resonating with anyone who has ever struggled to voice their true feelings.