Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “N2” by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
“N2” is a song by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION that attempts to capture the feeling of starting anew and aiming to reach a personal goal. The song starts off with a solemn acoustic guitar letting its gentle chords fill the listener’s ears with a sense of peace and calm. The lyrics convey strong feelings of optimism and determination as the singer speaks of being, “One step ahead and nothing’s gonna stop me now.” This foreshadows a journey that would lead the person out of misery and into a place of fulfillment – a journey that he will take powered by his own willpower and strength.
Throughout the song, various elements are constantly changing. The acoustic guitar leads to a full-bodied electric guitar as its riff conveys an even stronger sense of optimism. The drums are gradual but firm, symbolizing a change in pace as the song progresses. These elements create a feeling of increasing momentum, introducing a hope for a brighter and clearer future. As the singer repeatedly affirms that his feet are “uncaged,” the listener can almost feel the sense of freedom flowing in the air.
On the surface, “N2” is about one’s desire for a brighter future. A closer inspection reveals that it is inherently a song about self-empowerment. The instrumentation and arrangement function as a conduit of the power one builds up from within. With that power, one can decide to be the architect of one’s own life and mold it however one chooses. In this way, the song acts as a source of inspiration and motivation for those who feel helpless and stuck.
The song ends with a simple reprise of its main motifs, signifying the inevitable completion of this journey. Each instrument slowly fades out one by one, leaving the listener with a single line of hope to cling to: “I won’t stop until I reach the end.” In the end, the listen is left with the message that perseverance and self-empowerment are essential for one to achieve their goals in life. That no matter how hard the road ahead might be, one will ultimately make it to the final destination if one holds onto that power within.