Inside Joke

Zutomayo's 'Inside Joke' is a complex and introspective song that delves into the chaotic and often contradictory nature of modern life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is struggling to find their place in a world filled with superficial interactions and societal expectations. The song opens with a sense of urgency and confusion, as the protagonist tries to keep up with the fast-paced demands of life, symbolized by the hurried consumption of a natto roll. This imagery sets the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the protagonist's feelings of being overwhelmed and out of sync with their surroundings.

The recurring theme of 'dance' in the song serves as a metaphor for the performative aspects of life. The protagonist feels like they are constantly putting on a show, trying to meet the expectations of others while grappling with their own sense of identity. The lyrics 'daremo kizuitenai' (nobody notices) and 'jemeosu yori mo yuu mo wana rakugaki ni' (more than jealousy, it's a trap in graffiti) suggest a deep-seated frustration with the superficiality and insincerity of social interactions. The protagonist yearns for authenticity and self-expression, as evidenced by their desire to 'stand by me shizentai ni' (stand by me naturally) and 'naritai jibun ni karamaru denchuu' (entangle with the self I want to be).

The song also touches on themes of anonymity and self-criticism. The protagonist expresses a desire to become an anonymous version of themselves, free from the judgments and criticisms of others. This is reflected in the lines 'attemo ienai sekai de tokumei no jibun ni natte' (in a world where I can't say it, I become an anonymous self) and 'dare wo hihan shinakutatte hassan dekiru kotoba sagashiteru' (looking for words to release without criticizing anyone). The song's conclusion, with its references to loneliness and self-reflection, underscores the protagonist's ongoing struggle to reconcile their inner world with the external pressures they face. Ultimately, 'Inside Joke' is a poignant exploration of the complexities of identity, self-expression, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.