Convincing

One Ok Rock's song 'Convincing' delves into the themes of self-belief, perseverance, and the struggle against societal expectations. The lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and the determination to stay true to oneself despite external pressures. The opening lines, 'I know I was not a dreamer / But I lost something somehow anyway!' suggest a sense of loss and confusion, yet the protagonist remains undeterred by what others say, emphasizing a resilient spirit with 'Never stop! until the end.' This sets the tone for a narrative that is both introspective and defiant.

The song incorporates both English and Japanese lyrics, adding a layer of cultural depth. Phrases like 'koko de oreru hodo yawa ja nai' (I am not so weak as to break here) highlight the internal struggle and the resolve to overcome it. The repeated assertion 'It’s so wrong!!' underscores the protagonist's rejection of societal norms and expectations. The lyrics 'kudaranai okusoku ni zen ?(nara) e ha mazu oi toi te / shibara re zu dekiru koto hitotsu hitotsu kumitate te iku' (First, discard the worthless speculations / and build up what you can do one by one) further emphasize the importance of focusing on personal growth and capabilities rather than being bogged down by external judgments.

The song also touches on the idea of finding joy in the present moment, as seen in 'amae toka iiwake wa ninotsugi san no tsugi ni shite / ima da kara tanoshimeru koto mitsuke te hanasan de kure yo!' (Put aside indulgence and excuses / find what you can enjoy now and don't let go!). This line encourages living in the moment and finding happiness in the present, rather than waiting for an uncertain future. The closing sentiment, 'Waiting for Ending is No Future!' reinforces the message that passivity and waiting for things to happen is not a viable path forward. Instead, the song advocates for active engagement in shaping one's destiny.