Asphyxia

The song 'Asphyxia' by Tokyo Ghoul:re delves into the themes of entrapment, despair, and the search for meaning in a dystopian world. The lyrics paint a picture of a child trapped in the night, holding their breath with an expressionless face, symbolizing a sense of suffocation and hopelessness. This imagery sets the tone for the rest of the song, which explores the feeling of being overwhelmed by an inescapable reality.

The chorus, 'Open your eyes, sinking shadow, no matter what now, this is reality,' emphasizes the harshness of the world the protagonist inhabits. The mention of 'freedom' being non-existent and the pain given by another person possibly being mistaken for love highlights the confusion and emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist. The term 'Schadenfreude,' which means deriving pleasure from another's misfortune, suggests a twisted sense of guidance or motivation, further complicating the protagonist's emotional state.

As the song progresses, the lyrics touch on themes of absurdity and resignation, questioning how long one can continue to justify the irrationality of their situation. The protagonist's body rusts as they struggle to breathe, symbolizing the physical and emotional decay caused by their environment. Despite this, there is a sense of defiance as they continue to fight, even as they fall apart. The final lines, 'without changing their face even a little, starting justice in the night,' suggest a glimmer of hope or a call to action, indicating that the fight for justice and meaning continues even in the darkest of times.