“Plastic Love” is a renowned Japanese city pop song by Mariya Takeuchi. With its infectious melody and captivating lyrics, it has garnered a devoted fanbase worldwide. While the original lyrics are in Japanese, English translations have allowed non-Japanese speakers to appreciate the song’s depth. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the English lyrics of “Plastic Love,” examining the poetic themes and emotions that make it a timeless classic.
Understanding “Plastic Love”:
“Plastic Love” was released in 1984 and remains a celebrated track within the city pop genre. The song’s catchy tune, combined with its poignant lyrics, tells a story of love, longing, and disillusionment. When translated into English, these themes are even more accessible to a global audience.
Analyzing the English Lyrics:
Verse 1:
So, I can’t fall in love with you
Though it seems I might have said it too seriously
The opening lines reflect a sense of hesitation and caution. The protagonist appears to be guarding their emotions, unable to fully commit to a romantic relationship. The use of “too seriously” suggests a past experience that may have led to heartbreak, making them wary of diving into love once more.
Chorus:
I’m not a plastic doll
This isn’t a dream, right?
But even if I say that
It’s not convincing
The chorus introduces the concept of being a “plastic doll.” In this context, a plastic doll symbolizes a superficial, emotionless existence. The protagonist questions the authenticity of their feelings and the reality of the situation. They express doubt, unable to convince themselves that their emotions are genuine.
Verse 2:
When I noticed, I was dancing alone
In this sky-less room, the two of us painted in each other’s shadows
The second verse deepens the narrative, suggesting a sense of isolation. The protagonist realizes they have been dancing alone, metaphorically illustrating their solitude. The mention of a “sky-less room” underscores a feeling of confinement or entrapment, possibly within the confines of their own emotions. The imagery of two people “painted in each other’s shadows” evokes a sense of dependence or coexistence, but not necessarily a deep connection.
Chorus:
I’m not a plastic doll
This isn’t a dream, right?
But even if I say that
It’s not convincing
With a sigh, I erased my unfocused love
Plastic love
The repetition of the chorus reinforces the themes of doubt and uncertainty. The mention of erasing “unfocused love” suggests a deliberate act to distance themselves from vague or unclear emotions. The phrase “plastic love” itself is intriguing, as it can be interpreted as a commentary on the superficiality or shallowness of modern relationships.
Bridge:
Walking alone through the neon night
When I close my eyes, I can hear your voice
But even if I reach out my hand, you won’t be there
It’s just an illusion
The bridge conveys a sense of longing and nostalgia. The image of walking alone through the “neon night” evokes a lonely, urban landscape. The reference to hearing the loved one’s voice when closing one’s eyes suggests that the memory of the past relationship is vivid. However, the stark realization that reaching out won’t bring them back highlights the illusory nature of their attachment.
Chorus:
I’m not a plastic doll
This isn’t a dream, right?
But even if I say that
It’s not convincing
With a sigh, I erased my unfocused love
Plastic love
The final chorus restates the core themes of the song, underscoring the inability to escape the feeling of artificiality and emotional detachment. The act of erasing “unfocused love” speaks to the protagonist’s attempt to move on, but they cannot escape the haunting presence of “plastic love.”
The Resonance of “Plastic Love”:
“Plastic Love” resonates with listeners for several reasons. First, it captures the complexities of modern love and relationships, where authenticity is often questioned. The concept of “plastic love” reflects the superficiality and uncertainty that can permeate romantic connections.
The song’s melancholic tone and evocative lyrics also contribute to its appeal. It taps into the universal experience of longing and nostalgia for lost or unattainable love.
Moreover, the English translation allows a broader audience to engage with the song’s emotional depth, expanding its reach beyond Japanese-speaking audiences.
In conclusion, “Plastic Love” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its heartfelt and thought-provoking English lyrics. It invites us to explore the intricacies of love, longing, and the search for authenticity in a world that can sometimes feel superficial and detached.
