Shadow Is The Light
The Sixth Lie
Embracing Darkness: The Paradox of Light in 'Shadow Is The Light'
The Sixth Lie's song 'Shadow Is The Light' delves into the complex interplay between light and darkness, both literally and metaphorically. The lyrics, primarily in Japanese with some English phrases, paint a vivid picture of a world where darkness is omnipresent, reflecting in every aspect of life. The repeated line 'Everything reflects the darkness' suggests a pervasive sense of gloom and despair, indicating that darkness is not just an external force but something internalized by the narrator.
The song's title itself, 'Shadow Is The Light,' is a paradox that challenges conventional notions of light and darkness. It implies that what we often perceive as negative or dark can also be a source of enlightenment or understanding. The narrator seems to embrace this darkness, acknowledging it as an integral part of their existence. Lines like 'このさだめをせおって' (carrying this fate) and 'I’ll never change!!' indicate a resolute acceptance of their circumstances, no matter how bleak they may seem.
Cultural references in the song, such as the imagery of a 'まっくらなまち' (pitch-dark town) and 'むすうのまどあかり' (countless window lights), evoke a sense of urban isolation and existential angst. The narrator's struggle is not just against external darkness but also against the internal shadows that pierce their soul. The song's climax, where the narrator decides that 'まっくろなまんまでいい' (it's fine to remain pitch-black), signifies a profound acceptance of their true self, flaws and all. This acceptance is both liberating and tragic, encapsulating the song's core message that light and darkness are two sides of the same coin.