[街访说]《凡人歌》说平凡之录

Despite all the reviews about this song earlier, today I want to do something a bit personal using this song (sending this song to my dear wife XiYian. Don’t lose heart, everything is for the best, do your best and leave the rest to fate!), just as the lyrics sing:

你我皆凡人 生在人世间 终日奔波苦 一刻不得闲 既然不是仙 难免有杂念 道义放两旁 利字摆中间 多少男子汉 一怒为红颜 多少同林鸟 已成分飞燕 人生何其短 何必苦苦恋 爱人不见了 向谁去喊冤 问你何时曾看见 这世界为了人们改变 有了梦寐以求的容颜 是否就算是拥有春天 你我皆凡人 生在人世间 终日奔波苦 一刻不得闲 你既然不是仙 难免有杂念 道义放两旁 把利字摆中间 多少男子汉 一怒为红颜 多少同林鸟 已成了分飞燕 人生何其短 何必苦苦恋 爱人不见了 向谁去喊冤 问你何时曾看见 这世界为了人们改变 有了梦寐以求的容颜 是否就算是拥有春天

Meaning of the Lyrics

“The Ordinary Man’s Song” is filled with reflections and insights about life. Jonathan Lee uses the perspective of an ordinary person to portray the ups and downs, joys, and sorrows of life. The lyrics convey an attitude of acceptance towards life and a sense of optimism about fate.

1. The Impermanence of Life

The lyrics mention, “In this world, there are hundreds of beauties, but I love your type the most,” highlighting the understanding of the world’s complexities and the appreciation of unique emotions. This portrayal makes listeners realize that in the diverse experiences of life, each person has their unique journey and feelings.

2. Affirmation of the Ordinary

Lee emphasizes the beauty and significance of ordinary life. Although everyone is just an “ordinary person,” each person’s life holds its own unique value. The lyrics, “When have you ever seen the world change for people?” touch on the insignificance of individuals in the grand scheme of things but also highlight the importance of each person’s life through the delicate depiction of personal emotions.

Significance of the Music

Jonathan Lee’s musical style is known for its subtle and sincere emotions. The melody of “The Ordinary Man’s Song” is simple yet moving, complementing the lyrics perfectly and creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

1. Emotional Resonance

The song’s melody and singing style are very natural, easily resonating with listeners. Lee’s warm and expressive voice conveys the deep feelings and philosophy contained in the song, prompting listeners to reflect on their own lives during the listening process.

2. Integration of Music and Lyrics

The melody and arrangement of “The Ordinary Man’s Song” are very fitting to the theme of the lyrics—simple yet profound, calm yet powerful. This musical style aligns with Lee’s consistent creative philosophy of using genuine emotions to touch people’s hearts.

Cultural and Social Context

“The Ordinary Man’s Song” emerged in the 1990s, a golden era for Chinese pop music. As a key musician of this period, Jonathan Lee’s works not only reflect personal emotions but also the social changes and pulse of the times.

1. Reflection of Social Changes

The 1990s was a period of rapid economic growth and social transformation in mainland China and Taiwan, China. During this time, while people were pursuing material wealth and achievements, they also started to re-examine the meaning of life and inner pursuits. Through a narrative of ordinariness, “The Ordinary Man’s Song” touches on people’s deep-seated emotions and desires.

2. Continuation of Traditional Culture

Lee often incorporates thoughts and references to Chinese traditional culture in his lyrics. In “The Ordinary Man’s Song,” the understanding of life’s impermanence and the praise for ordinary life also embody the Confucian philosophy about life and value.

Conclusion

“The Ordinary Man’s Song” has become a classic not only because of its touching melody and sincere singing but also due to its profound lyrics and embedded life philosophy. Jonathan Lee, through this song, conveys a deep understanding of life and an appreciation for the beauty of the ordinary, urging people to pause in their fast-paced lives and reconsider the meaning and value of life. This sincere and profound expression ensures that “The Ordinary Man’s Song” continues to resonate with listeners over time.