SQUARE_ONE Lyrics (English Translation) – Number_i

SQUARE_ONE (English Translation) Lyrics Meaning

[Verse 1]
The opening verse reflects on the diverse possibilities and uncertainties that accompany the beginning of any journey. It mentions various theories suggesting different paths or outcomes. The line “Prologue is not on the cover” implies that the initial stage, the prologue, isn’t always apparent or predictable. The reference to Toriyama, likely Akira Toriyama, a renowned manga artist, suggests that the journey may resemble an artwork, intricate and detailed. “Square one” symbolizes the starting point, where everything begins anew. The mention of “facsimile collapses into blank A4 paper” indicates the breakdown of imitations or false starts, returning to a clean slate. “Send and receive Destiny” suggests the exchange and influence of fate. The imagery of breaking rusty chains by a “black belt entertainer” symbolizes overcoming limitations or constraints. Comparing the world to Jenga emphasizes its fragile nature, where one wrong move can lead to collapse. The mention of “i” as a number suggests introspection and self-reflection. “Knee chestnut hair all the way to the top” signifies perseverance despite challenges. “Throw the dice and spoon and go back to square one” implies embracing unpredictability and starting afresh. Despite anxiety, there’s a sense of resilience, even in the smallest aspects of life, like insect saliva running together.

[Pre-Chorus]
This section emphasizes the perpetual motion and uncertainty inherent in life. It likens life to a spinning etude, a musical exercise characterized by continuous movement and challenge. Despite the unpredictable nature of existence, there’s an assurance of presence and support (“I’m coming”). The line “There’s no end to the top” suggests that success or achievement is ongoing, without a definitive endpoint. Encouraging self-reliance, it urges individuals to be their own source of strength and determination. The reference to life beginning after the “plating peels off” hints at shedding superficial layers to reveal true essence. Ultimately, it advocates for living without overthinking and embracing the flow of life.

[Chorus]
The chorus reflects on the challenges faced in a world where love can feel devoid of emotion or sincerity. Despite the brokenness (“Connect with a broken ‘i'”), there’s a desire for connection and reassurance. The line “Things will be okay if I’m with you, but she has to go” suggests a bittersweet realization of the impermanence of certain relationships. The journey ahead is depicted as limitless, with dreams as the guiding force. It signifies a determination to pursue aspirations from the very beginning, regardless of obstacles.

[Interlude]
This brief interlude hints at a sense of striving for success and recognition. The mention of “number one” suggests a pursuit of excellence or achievement. It encourages pushing oneself to the top, even in a world saturated with superficialities (“emoji great country”). The reference to dreams and expression (“Dream, stuff the cotton swab case, scream!”) signifies a desire to break free from constraints and make one’s voice heard. Ultimately, it celebrates individuality and authenticity.

[Verse 2]
This verse delves into themes of ambition, success, and humility. It references the pursuit of material wealth and status, represented by earning “dollars” and names like Taishi, Yukichi, and Sho. The mention of a goat eating higher quality sushi than paper juxtaposes materialism with authenticity. The plea to “Kishi-kun” to buy something hints at dependency or desire for validation. The message of humility is conveyed through the caution against arrogance and the reminder that everyone starts from square one, regardless of achievements.

[Pre-Chorus]
This section echoes the earlier pre-chorus, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the importance of embracing its uncertainties. It reiterates the idea of continuous movement (“I’m coming”) and the perpetual spinning of the earth. Encouraging individuals to let go of worries and expectations, it reaffirms the notion of self-reliance and the potential for new beginnings.

[Chorus]
Similar to the previous chorus, this section reflects on the complexities of relationships and the pursuit of dreams. It acknowledges the challenges of navigating emotional turmoil (“Almost destroyed in the age of emotionless love”) and the longing for connection despite brokenness. Despite the inevitability of parting ways, there’s a determination to pursue dreams and aspirations together, from square one.

[Outro]
The outro revisits the themes of beginnings and endless possibilities. It reflects on the multitude of theories and possibilities at the outset of a journey. The mention of an “epilogue not on the back cover” suggests that endings may not always be neatly defined. Only the paths walked become roads, symbolizing the importance of personal experiences in shaping one’s journey. Ultimately, it reaffirms the significance of embracing the starting point and the unknown future, as it is the foundation upon which new paths are forged.