Karma - AJR
Music has always been my go-to escape, a source of comfort and clarity when life gets a bit too overwhelming. One song that has resonated with me deeply is "Karma" by AJR. From their album "Neotheater," this track captures the essence of frustration and existential doubt in a way that feels both personal and universal. Here’s why "Karma" strikes such a chord with me and how it might offer you some insight as well.
Lyrics: A Narrative of Disillusionment and Self-Examination
"Karma" opens with a candid portrayal of the protagonist's struggle to understand the fruits of their labour:
"I've been so good, I've been helpful and friendly, I've been so good, why am I feeling empty?"
These lines immediately set a tone of confusion and disillusionment. Despite the protagonist's efforts to be good and helpful, they find themselves feeling unfulfilled and questioning the return on their emotional and moral investment.
The chorus amplifies this sentiment with a poignant question:
“I've been so good, I've been helpful and friendly, I've been so good, why am I feeling empty?, I've been so good, I've been so good this year, I've been so good, but it's still getting harder, I've been so good, where the hell is the karma?, I've been so good, I've been so good this year”
The chorus underlines the central theme of “Karma”, the idea that what is put out into the world should be given back in equal measure. The singer is frustrated because he has “been so good this year” and has made himself “helpful and friendly,” but rather than see his life improve he feels as though things are “still getting harder.” This leaves him confused and asking himself, and his therapist, “Where the hell is the karma
The outro of the song expresses the protagonists sadness that he and his therapist have run out of time. He still feels completely unprepared to handle the negative events taking place in his life. He wishes he could bring the wisdom and guidance of their therapist with them:
“To give me some diagnosis of why I'm so hollow, Please give me instructions, I promise I'll follow, I tripped on my ankle and fractured my elbow, But doesn't that mean that the tour's gonna sell though?, I try to explain the good faith that's been wasted, But after an hour it sounds like complaining, Wait don't go away, can I lie here forever?, You say that I'm better, why don't I feel better?”
The protagonist emphasises how his good faith has been in vain as he waits for the karma to work. He mentions a deprerate confession that “the universe works in mysterious ways, But I’m stating to think it ain’t working for me”
The final two lines of the song encompass the question that ‘Karma’ asks: “If nothing changes when I do good, is there any point in doing the right thing?”
“Doctor, should I be good?, Should I be good this year?”
The Struggle for Justice
The premise of "Karma" is one that many of us can relate to: the idea that good actions should lead to good outcomes. The song’s protagonist wrestles with this notion, questioning why their positive deeds haven’t resulted in the positive life they expected. The lyrics, "I’ve been so good, I’ve been helpful and friendly, I’ve been so good, why am I feeling empty?" perfectly encapsulate this sentiment.
For me, these lines hit home. There have been countless times when I’ve felt like I was doing everything right—being kind, working hard, staying positive—yet still felt unfulfilled or faced setbacks. It’s a frustrating place to be, and "Karma" gives voice to that frustration in a way that feels validating.
The Music: A Theatrical Journey
Musically, "Karma" is a dynamic blend of theatrical pop and introspective lyrics. AJR is known for their unique production style, and this song is no exception. The upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation contrast sharply with the weight of the lyrics, creating an ironic but effective juxtaposition.
Listening to "Karma" feels like riding an emotional rollercoaster. The shifts in tempo and intensity mirror the internal conflict of trying to reconcile expectations with reality. This musical journey not only keeps me engaged but also helps me process my own emotions.
Personal Reflection: The Search for Answers
One of the most powerful aspects of "Karma" is its honesty. The song doesn’t offer easy answers or neat resolutions. Instead, it embraces the uncertainty and complexity of life’s challenges. The chorus— “I've been so good, why am I feeling empty?/ I've been so good, where the hell is the karma? —captures the essence of this struggle.
In my own life, I’ve often grappled with similar questions. Why isn’t hard work always rewarded? Why do good people face tough times? These are questions without simple answers, and "Karma" acknowledges that. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to question and to feel confused. Sometimes, simply acknowledging the struggle is the first step towards finding peace.
Finding Solace in the Music
"Karma" has become a go-to song for me when I’m feeling down or questioning my path. It’s like a musical companion that understands my frustrations and uncertainties. The song doesn’t try to fix things or provide solutions; it simply validates the experience of feeling stuck or unappreciated.
This validation is powerful. It reminds me that I’m not alone in feeling this way and that others, including the members of AJR, have similar struggles. It’s a comforting thought, and it helps me find some solace in the midst of my own challenges.
Summary
"Karma" by AJR is more than just a song; it’s a reflection of the complexities of life and the struggle to find meaning in our actions. It resonates with me on a deeply personal level, offering both comfort and clarity. If you’re feeling frustrated or questioning the fairness of life, give "Karma" a listen. You might find, as I did, that it speaks to your soul and helps you navigate the uncertainties of life with a bit more grace and understanding.
Music has a unique way of connecting us, and "Karma" is a perfect example of how a song can articulate our deepest feelings and provide a sense of shared experience. So next time you’re feeling lost or frustrated, remember: you’re not alone, and sometimes, just acknowledging the struggle is a step towards finding your own path to clarity.