karōshi!

Sion Jung's song 'karōshi!' delves into the harrowing experience of overwork and the psychological toll it takes on individuals. The term 'karōshi' is a Japanese word that translates to 'death by overwork,' setting a grim tone for the song. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life consumed by relentless deadlines and the constant pressure to perform, leading to a sense of existential dread and questioning of one's choices.

The song opens with a reflection on the passage of time and the increasing intensity of life's demands. The mention of summer getting warmer and the subway as a place of significant decisions suggests a routine that has become suffocating. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of work and stress, symbolized by the 'din and smoke' and the 'murder in the opus,' indicating a creative process marred by pressure and darkness. The repeated lines about deadlines and the struggle to decode the chaos around them highlight the overwhelming nature of their situation.

As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the psychological impact of this relentless pace. The reference to 'Clock's tickin like Poe's heart' evokes Edgar Allan Poe's themes of madness and despair, suggesting that the protagonist feels trapped in a nightmarish reality. The imagery of 'drank the hemlock out of panic' and 'secrets bled out my eyes' further emphasizes the desperation and the toll on mental health. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the aftermath of such a life, where the 'left ones in a trance' and the 'lost one to the silence' underscore the tragic consequences of overwork and the lack of meaningful connection.

'karōshi!' by Sion Jung is a powerful commentary on the modern work culture and its dehumanizing effects. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of balance and the need to address the systemic issues that lead to such extreme outcomes.