ナミカレ (Even Tears Withered)

TUYU's song "ナミカレ (Even Tears Withered)" delves into the profound sense of disillusionment and existential despair experienced by the protagonist. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life that once brimmed with dreams and aspirations, only to be met with the harsh realities of adulthood. The opening lines, "お先真っ暗な人生 最早, どうでもいいや" (A pitch-dark future, I don't care anymore), set the tone for the song, highlighting a sense of hopelessness and resignation.

The protagonist reflects on their childhood, a time filled with dreams of becoming a pastry chef or a sports player, and the praise and expectations that came with it. However, as they grew older, these dreams faded, and the reality of societal pressures and comparisons took their toll. The repeated question, "夢とかどうやったら見つかるの?" (How do you find dreams?), underscores the protagonist's struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world that seems indifferent to their efforts.

The song also touches on the theme of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. Despite being a "good child" who excelled in school and followed the rules, the protagonist feels overlooked and unfulfilled. The lines "がむしゃらな態度で僕を見下さないで ムカつくんだ" (Don't look down on me with your reckless attitude, it pisses me off) and "幸せそうな声が憎らしくて" (I hate the sound of happiness) reveal a deep-seated resentment towards those who seem to have found success and happiness. This resentment is further compounded by the protagonist's sense of stagnation and decay, as they feel trapped at the bottom of society, with even their tears having withered away.

Ultimately, "ナミカレ (Even Tears Withered)" is a poignant exploration of the loss of dreams and the crushing weight of societal expectations. It captures the emotional turmoil of a person who feels left behind and disillusioned, struggling to find their place in a world that seems to have moved on without them.