20/20
One Ok Rock
Unmasking Deception: The Clarity of Hindsight in '20/20' by One Ok Rock
One Ok Rock's song '20/20' delves into the painful realization of betrayal and the clarity that comes with hindsight. The lyrics reflect a journey from trust to disillusionment, as the narrator grapples with the revelation that someone they once considered a friend was, in fact, deceitful. The phrase 'Hindsight's 20/20' is a central metaphor, suggesting that the narrator now sees the truth clearly, though it was obscured in the past. This metaphor is further emphasized with the line 'Maybe I should get glasses,' indicating a wish to have seen the betrayal coming.
The song's emotional core is rooted in the feelings of being used and discarded, as expressed in lines like 'Screw me over like you didn't know my name' and 'I was so convenient.' These lines convey a sense of being taken for granted and manipulated, highlighting the pain of realizing that the relationship was one-sided. The repetition of 'Now I can see' underscores the newfound clarity and the resolve to never let the betrayer back into their life.
The inclusion of Japanese lyrics adds a layer of cultural depth, reflecting the band's Japanese roots and broadening the song's emotional resonance. The Japanese lines speak to the disintegration of trust and the fragility of relationships, further emphasizing the theme of betrayal. The song's powerful message is universal, resonating with anyone who has experienced the sting of deceit and the empowerment that comes with recognizing and rejecting toxic relationships.