One By One

One Ok Rock's song 'One By One' is a powerful anthem that delves into themes of struggle, resilience, and defiance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a group of individuals who feel abandoned and marginalized, described as an 'army of used up freaks.' This metaphor suggests a sense of being discarded by society, yet finding strength in their unity and shared experiences. The repeated imagery of standing on a battleground and at the pinnacle highlights the constant fight and the feeling of being at a critical juncture, where the stakes are incredibly high.

The chorus, 'One by one we turn our hands to guns, one by one they fall down,' is a stark representation of the transformation from passive victims to active fighters. This line can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it could refer to taking up arms in a physical battle, but metaphorically, it speaks to the empowerment and determination to fight back against oppression and adversity. The idea of 'falling down' one by one also underscores the high cost of this struggle, acknowledging the sacrifices made along the way.

The song's bridge, 'Kept down so long, sick of living in the middle, if you stand for nothing, you'll fall for anything,' serves as a rallying cry for action and purpose. It emphasizes the importance of standing up for one's beliefs and not succumbing to a life of mediocrity or complacency. The declaration 'We are the chosen ones' reinforces a sense of destiny and purpose, urging listeners to wake up and scream out against the injustices they face. Overall, 'One By One' is a call to arms, encouraging resilience and unity in the face of overwhelming odds.