The Way Back (English)

One Ok Rock's 'The Way Back (English)' delves into the internal struggle of reconciling different parts of oneself. The lyrics open with the protagonist feeling 'broken in two parts,' highlighting a division between the mind and the heart. This dichotomy suggests a conflict between rational thought and emotional instinct, a common theme in human experience. The line 'No way for me to run and hide' underscores the inevitability of facing these internal battles head-on, without escape.

The song also explores themes of betrayal and self-serving behavior in relationships. The lines 'You only live to serve yourself / Come crawling back when you need help' paint a picture of someone who is manipulative and only returns when they need something. This creates a sense of disillusionment and mistrust, further complicating the protagonist's internal struggle. The repeated phrase 'You know the way back' implies a cyclical pattern of behavior, where the person in question repeatedly returns, causing emotional turmoil each time.

As the song progresses, the protagonist questions the authenticity of the other person, asking 'How do I know which one is true?' This line speaks to the confusion and uncertainty that arise when someone shows multiple faces or personas. The repeated assertion 'You know the way back' evolves from a statement of fact to a more complex acknowledgment of the difficulty in breaking free from these toxic cycles. The song concludes with a reiteration of the protagonist's internal division, emphasizing that the journey to self-reconciliation is ongoing and fraught with challenges.