Plastic Love
Tatsuro Yamashita
The Illusion of Affection in 'Plastic Love'
The song 'Plastic Love' by Tatsuro Yamashita is a poignant exploration of superficial relationships and the emotional detachment that can arise from past heartbreak. The lyrics tell the story of someone who has been hurt by love and has since adopted a lifestyle of fleeting, surface-level romantic encounters. The protagonist warns not to fall seriously in love with her, as she views love as nothing more than a game to be enjoyed temporarily. The use of the word 'plastic' to describe love suggests something artificial and disposable, highlighting the transient nature of the relationships she now engages in.
The song's narrative unfolds with the protagonist describing how she skillfully navigates the cycle of meeting and parting, suggesting a routine of emotional avoidance. The mention of dancing in trendy discos and wearing flashy dresses and shoes paints a picture of someone who masks their loneliness with the trappings of a carefree, glamorous life. Despite the outward appearance of fun and confidence, there's an underlying sadness, hinted at when she accidentally drops a glass and tears well up, quickly insisting not to ask why.
The chorus of 'Plastic Love' repeats the idea that the protagonist is just playing games, reinforcing the theme of insincerity in her romantic interactions. The phrase 'Dance to the plastic beat' could symbolize moving along with the artificial rhythm of her life, where genuine emotions are suppressed. The repetition of 'Another morning comes' serves as a reminder that after each night of pretense, life goes on, and she must face the reality of her emotional isolation once again.