Dada

RADWIMPS' song 'Dada' delves into the complexities and paradoxes of human existence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of life's circuitous path, where every step seems like a detour. The opening lines, 'Ikiteru aida subete toomawari / Subete oomawari,' suggest that life is full of roundabout ways and indirect routes. Despite the desire to find shortcuts, the singer acknowledges that these efforts often lead to frustration and reliance on divine intervention, as indicated by 'Ageku no hate wa ogami kamidanomi.' This reflects a universal human tendency to seek easier paths and, when those fail, to turn to higher powers for solace and guidance.

The song also explores the inevitability of life and death. The lines 'Umareta toki sunawachi sore ga irikuchi / Ato wa dare shimo ga shinu toki ga deguchi' highlight that birth is the entrance and death the exit, framing life as a journey between these two points. The lyrics suggest that living itself is a 'mawarimichi,' a long detour, and a way to pass the time. This existential perspective is further emphasized by the singer's frustration with societal expectations and the futility of trying to find meaning in a predetermined path, as seen in 'Mukou saki wa deguchi to mo shirazu ni / Michi nukeru tame ni hibi jibun sagashi.'

Technological and ecological themes also surface in the song. The lyrics 'Warera no takara sore wa tekunorojii / Atarashii inochi no tame ni ekorojii' juxtapose the marvels of technology and ecology with the harsh reality that these advancements may not necessarily lead to a better future. The song questions the value of these 'treasures' when the future remains uncertain and potentially bleak. The repeated refrain 'Na na na na na na / Ni shi nai de' serves as a reminder to not get bogged down by these existential dilemmas and to keep moving forward despite the uncertainties.

'Dada' is a profound exploration of life's inherent contradictions, the search for meaning, and the struggle to navigate an unpredictable world. It challenges listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the paths they choose to take, all while acknowledging the inevitability of life's end.