The song "Big in Japan (Demo Remix)" by Alphaville portrays the experiences and emotions of someone who feels a sense of excitement and success being in Japan. The lyrics metaphorically speak about the allure and glamour of being popular and well-known in a foreign country.
The opening verse, "Winter's cityside, crystal bits of snowflakes, all around my head and in the wind," sets the scene of a winter landscape, possibly in Japan. The protagonist acknowledges that they never expected to find traces of the warmth and vibrancy of summer in the eyes of another person, expressing a longing for connection and passion.
The line, "You did what you did to me, now it's history I see," suggests that the protagonist has experienced some kind of disappointment or betrayal but has moved on from it. They are ready to make a comeback and seize opportunities that come their way.
The chorus, "Things are easy when you're big in Japan," represents the idea that success and popularity make life easier and more enjoyable. Being "big in Japan" symbolizes gaining recognition, fame, and acceptance in a foreign land.
The verse, "Neon on my naked skin, passing silhouettes of strange illuminated mannequins," evokes the vivid imagery of a bustling cityscape. This imagery implies that the protagonist is surrounded by a vibrant and visually captivating environment that enhances their feelings of importance and accomplishment.
The line, "Shall I stay here at the zoo or shall I go and change my point of view for other ugly scenes," suggests that the protagonist is grappling with whether to continue reveling in their current success or venture into new territory. They question whether the superficiality of their current circumstances is worth remaining in, or if they should seek deeper experiences elsewhere.
Overall, "Big in Japan (Demo Remix)" portrays the excitement and advantages of achieving fame and recognition in a foreign country, as well as the introspective moments of questioning the authenticity and meaning behind this newfound success.