The Hanged Man
Uplift Spice
The Paradox of Existence in 'The Hanged Man'
Uplift Spice's song 'The Hanged Man' is a whirlwind of existential musings and paradoxical reflections. The lyrics are a blend of Japanese and English, creating a unique tapestry of meaning that delves into the complexities of life, fate, and self-awareness. The song opens with a countdown of days, each associated with a different state of being or action, suggesting a cyclical nature of existence. The repetition of 'bakku' (back) and 'shi no uenzudei' (Wednesday of death) hints at a recurring confrontation with mortality and the inevitability of life's end.
The song's title, 'The Hanged Man,' is a direct reference to the Tarot card of the same name, which symbolizes suspension, letting go, and seeing things from a different perspective. This theme is echoed in the lyrics with phrases like 'sakasama no mama fudou no the hanged man' (the hanged man remains upside down and immobile), indicating a state of being stuck or in limbo. The imagery of a roller coaster ('rooraa koosutaa') and the paradox of happiness and victory ('kofuku ni shouri no paradokkusu') further emphasize the tumultuous and contradictory nature of life.
The song also explores themes of control and surrender, as seen in the lines 'One, tomare seishi no saazudee' (stop, the stillness of Thursday) and 'Two, sagare koutai no furaidee' (retreat, the withdrawal of Friday). These lines suggest a struggle between action and inaction, progress and regression. The repeated calls to 'sheikii' (shake) and the imagery of 'herutaa sukerutaa' (helter-skelter) convey a sense of chaos and the need to break free from constraints. Ultimately, 'The Hanged Man' by Uplift Spice is a powerful exploration of the human condition, filled with vivid metaphors and a dynamic interplay of language and sound.