1980

Asian Kung-fu Generation's song '1980' is a poignant critique of societal norms and the facades people wear to navigate through life. The lyrics open with a vivid image of putting on a mask from a magazine, symbolizing the artificial personas people adopt. The 'poker face' and 'decorations' mentioned suggest a world where appearances are everything, and authenticity is sacrificed for social acceptance, even if just for a day.

The song continues to explore themes of corruption and deceit, with references to 'give me money' and 'prime minister,' hinting at political and economic manipulation. The term 'capital monster' further emphasizes the destructive nature of capitalism, which prioritizes profit over human values. The lyrics question the audience's awareness, asking if they understand the extent of the deception until death, revealing a deep sense of disillusionment with societal structures.

In the latter part of the song, the focus shifts to personal responsibility and choice. The lines 'with a pen in the right hand, what did we choose?' and 'with trembling eardrums, who did we choose?' reflect on the consequences of our decisions and the roles we play in perpetuating these societal norms. The imagery of blocking ears and eyes with hands suggests a willful ignorance, a refusal to see or hear the truth, which has persisted for decades. This powerful message calls for introspection and a reevaluation of our values and actions.

'1980' by Asian Kung-fu Generation is not just a song but a mirror reflecting the complexities and contradictions of modern society. It challenges listeners to unmask the illusions and confront the uncomfortable truths about the world we live in.