Meaning of N.O (Japanese Ver.) by Jung Kook (정국)

The overall theme of Jung Kook's song "N.O (Japanese Ver.)" revolves around societal pressure and the quest for true happiness. The lyrics highlight the struggles faced by individuals who feel trapped within the confines of societal expectations and the longing for a life that goes beyond conformity. Through a series of standout and important lyrics, the song delves into various imaginative themes that further develop this overarching concept.One standout lyric that captures this theme is, "Dream 消えさって breath できなくなって 学校や家 ネットカフェ 往復の my days" (Translation: Dreams disappearing, losing the ability to take a breath, my days revolving between school, home, and internet cafés). This lyric portrays the mundane and monotonous routine of someone who feels trapped and suffocated by societal expectations. It explores the theme of suffocation and the desire to break free from a repetitive and unfulfilling life.Another important lyric that adds depth to the song's theme is, "誰だ? 俺らを機械にしたのは? トップにいなきゃ駄目なのか?" (Translation: Who is it? Who turned us into machines? Do we have to be at the top?). This lyric questions the pressure to conform to a predetermined path of success and achievement. It highlights the theme of societal pressure and the expectation to constantly strive for the top, while asking whether this is truly necessary for happiness and fulfillment.The lyric, "周りはこう言うのさ「今はまだ我慢しな」" (Translation: People around me say, "Just be patient for now") serves as a representation of the pressure to suppress one's desires and dreams in order to meet societal expectations. It explores the theme of sacrifice and the notion that delaying personal fulfillment will lead to ultimate success. However, this lyric challenges this perspective and questions the validity of sacrificing one's happiness for future gains.Additionally, the powerful line, "Make money, good money 全部 曲がった当然" (Translation: Make money, good money, everything naturally bends) brings attention to the compromises and bending of principles that occur in the pursuit of financial success. This lyric explores the theme of societal influence and the sacrifices often made to conform to societal norms, even if it means compromising one's own values and integrity.One more thought-provoking lyric is, "Dem 俺に聞かせる 今が幸せだって 身に余る位なんだって" (Translation: They tell me that I should be happy with what I have because it's more than enough). This lyric challenges the notion that material possessions and external achievements equate to true happiness. It develops the theme of contentment and the idea that true fulfillment lies in embracing one's own desires and aspirations, rather than conforming to societal standards of success.In conclusion, Jung Kook's "N.O (Japanese Ver.)" presents a powerful and thought-provoking commentary on societal pressure and the quest for genuine happiness. Through various standout and important lyrics, the song explores themes such as suffocation, societal expectations, sacrifice, compromise, and the search for personal fulfillment. It encourages listeners to question the value of conforming to societal norms and encourages the pursuit of individual dreams and desires.