![]() I have the atmospheric phenomena that can affect weather, visibility or moods, but not the vast expanse that contains them. I have a companion, but not the treat or reward that makes it happy or loyal. I have the means to initiate a reaction or create a substance, but not the material or force that triggers it or makes it effective. I experience the rhythmic variations of tides, waves or currents, indicating the ups and downs of existence and emotions. I possess two birds, one associated with virility, the other with death or misfortune, both of which have symbolic value in different cultures I have complete authority, influence, or charisma over a large group of people, who show submission or admiration. I have desirable objects that evoke pleasure or satisfaction, the moon being a symbol of romance and the cheese of wealth and indulgence. I control the steering, but not the vehicle that transports me or the goods. I possess the means to play games of chance or strategy, but not the favorable outcome or serendipity necessary to win. ![]() I have a musical instrument, but not the crucial part that produces sound or modulates it. I own a house, but not the legal right to it or the obligation to maintain it. I have an opening that can let light in or provide a view, but no means to close it or shield from unwanted elements.ĭespite the aforementioned limitations, Tom Waits still enjoys great success and popularity in Japan. I have enough resources, but not the means to make them multiply or grow. I possess fine garments, but not the good looks to enhance their appeal I have the appearance and behavior associated with a particular group, but lack the elegance and poise that characterizes it. Ultimately, the song captures the feeling of being an outsider desperately seeking acceptance or validation, even if it's from a world that seems far removed from one's own. The chorus of the song seems to suggest that the protagonist is widely celebrated in Japan, perhaps because he possesses a certain exoticism or foreignness that appeals to Japanese audiences. The significance of this declaration of being "big in Japan" is not entirely clear, but it likely represents the protagonist's desire for some sort of validation or recognition, even if it's from a far-off place where he may not be known personally. Despite this, he proudly proclaims that he is "big in Japan." He has the house but not the deed, the horn but not the reed, the cards but not the luck, and the wheel but not the truck. He has the style but not the grace, the clothes but not the face, the bread but not the butter. In Tom Waits's song "Big in Japan," the protagonist sings about having all the superficial trappings of success but nothing substantial to show for it. I got the whole damn nation on their knees I'm big in Japan, but hey, I'm big in Japan
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