Bomber

Tatsuro Yamashita's song 'Bomber' delves into the deceptive allure of wealth and the moral decay it can bring. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who believes that money can buy anything, even the sun. This character is depicted as someone who navigates life with a flashy car, evading the police and manipulating others for his gain. The imagery of slipping into the 'valley of the view' and the 'puzzle-like alleys' suggests a life of constant evasion and deceit, where the pursuit of wealth leads to a hollow existence.

The song's protagonist is described as a 'cheap man,' despite his apparent riches. This paradox highlights the emptiness of his pursuits. The lyrics caution against falling into his traps, likening his schemes to a rigged roulette game. The repeated refrain about money being able to grasp even the sun underscores the character's delusion and the futility of his ambitions. The song critiques the idea that financial success equates to true power or happiness, suggesting that such a belief is ultimately self-destructive.

Yamashita's 'Bomber' also touches on themes of justice and retribution. The narrator expresses a desire to expose the lies and deceit of the wealthy man, to 'break him with my judge right.' This sense of moral righteousness contrasts sharply with the protagonist's unscrupulous behavior. The song ends on a note of inevitability, predicting that the man will eventually be buried in a heap of his own making, with his future 'out in sight.' This final image serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of material wealth and the enduring value of integrity.