Red Criminal

THE ORAL CIGARETTES' song "Red Criminal" delves into the complexities of living in a world filled with deception, pain, and the struggle for authenticity. The lyrics paint a picture of a protagonist who is disillusioned with the world around them, feeling trapped in a cycle of lies and falsehoods. The phrase "現実のcrime for heaven's sake" (a crime of reality for heaven's sake) suggests a conflict between the harsh truths of reality and the idealistic visions of a better world. This tension is further emphasized by the line "偽りも受け入れる幻想の永遠を重ね消えてく" (accepting lies, layering them with illusions of eternity, and disappearing), indicating a sense of resignation to the pervasive dishonesty in society.

The recurring motif of the "Red criminal" symbolizes someone who is marked by their defiance against this flawed world. The protagonist admits, "I've never been in love," which could signify a lack of genuine connection or fulfillment in their life. This sentiment is echoed in the lines "いつから僕はこんな世界に嫌気が差した" (since when did I become so fed up with this world) and "もう傷つけないようにずっと自分を犠牲にしてた" (I've always sacrificed myself to avoid getting hurt). These lines highlight the internal conflict of wanting to protect oneself from further pain while feeling the weight of self-sacrifice.

The song also touches on themes of rebellion and the desire for change. The lines "Get down! Give it a try to go" and "感情がない奴は意味がない" (those without emotions are meaningless) suggest a call to action, urging listeners to fight for their beliefs and embrace their emotions. The final lines, "狙い定め red criminal" (aiming at the red criminal), imply a determination to confront and overcome the challenges posed by this imperfect world. Ultimately, "Red Criminal" is a powerful exploration of the struggle for authenticity, self-sacrifice, and the quest for a better future.