Mikansei Koukyoukyoku
One Ok Rock
Embracing Imperfection: The Journey of Self-Discovery in 'Mikansei Koukyoukyoku'
One Ok Rock's 'Mikansei Koukyoukyoku' is a powerful anthem that delves into the themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams. The title itself, which translates to 'Unfinished Symphony,' sets the tone for the song's exploration of human imperfection and the ongoing journey of self-improvement. The lyrics emphasize that everyone is a work in progress, constantly learning and evolving through life's experiences.
The song's opening lines, '未完成さ!! そう僕は!! 未完成なんだみんな!!' ('I'm incomplete!! Yes, I am!! Everyone is incomplete!!'), immediately establish the central theme of embracing one's flaws and imperfections. The lyrics encourage listeners to strive for their goals and learn from their journeys, embodying the Japanese proverb '七転八起' (fall seven times, stand up eight). This message is further reinforced by the desire to leave a meaningful legacy, as expressed in the lines 'もしも僕が明日死んでも何かここに残せるような そんな人間になりたいありたいって思いながら日々生きてる' ('Even if I die tomorrow, I want to be someone who leaves something behind, living each day with that thought').
The song also highlights the importance of self-validation and authenticity. The lyrics '百点じゃないこの僕に百点つけるのは 他でもない僕自身だ!!' ('The only one who can give a perfect score to this imperfect me is myself!!') underscore the idea that self-worth comes from within and that external opinions are secondary. This sentiment is echoed in the lines '大切なのは自分が自分であること' ('What matters is being yourself'), emphasizing the value of staying true to oneself.
'Mikansei Koukyoukyoku' also touches on the significance of expressing one's thoughts and emotions, regardless of societal expectations. The lyrics '言いたいことはなんだ? やりたいことはなんだ? 伝えたいことや届けたいものは 人それぞれ違ってだからこそぶつかって' ('What do you want to say? What do you want to do? What you want to convey and deliver is different for everyone, and that's why we clash') celebrate individuality and the diverse aspirations that drive people. The song ultimately serves as a reminder that life is a unique journey for each person, and embracing one's imperfections is a crucial part of that journey.