Surreal

Ayumi Hamasaki's song 'Surreal' delves into the complexities of personal choice, responsibility, and the emotional landscapes of loneliness and authenticity. The lyrics begin by challenging the notion that choosing only what one loves is irresponsible. Instead, Hamasaki suggests that without knowing what one truly loves, it's impossible to take responsibility for anything. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the burdens and possibilities that come with making conscious choices.

The song also touches on the futility of superficial sympathy and the inevitability of pain when something truly matters. Hamasaki contrasts the loneliness felt when alone with the more profound loneliness that can occur even when one is with someone else. This poignant observation underscores the emotional depth of the song, highlighting the importance of genuine connections and the pain that can arise from their absence.

In the latter part of the song, Hamasaki emphasizes the importance of keeping one's senses open, even in the face of loneliness and pain. She reflects on the impossibility of fulfilling promises and dreams alone, stressing the need for meaningful relationships. The repeated refrain of standing as oneself in a place that doesn't exist, and the plea for the other person to remain true to themselves, encapsulates the song's core message: the value of authenticity and the enduring struggle to maintain it in a world that often feels surreal.