XNXX

The song 'XNXX' by Joji takes its listeners on a somber emotional journey, dealing with the reluctance to continue the usual motions of life after a painful separation. Through the chorus, 'I don't really wanna run around, yeah / Time is goin' slow and I don't mind, yeah,' Joji captures the stagnation and complacency that can accompany heartbreak. The slow passage of time reflects his lack of desire to move forward or dive back into the dating scene, embodying a sense of apathy toward life without his significant other.

As the song progresses, the post-chorus emphasizes the repetitive and empty nature of trying to fill the void with routine distractions (''Round, 'round, 'round, 'round'). The words paint a vivid picture of a revolving cycle, hinting at the mundanity and the uninspired recitation of platitudes, just to make the world feel normal again. It's as if Joji is caught in a melancholic dance, spinning in place with no destination or purpose.

The bridge of the song surrenders to the monotony, simply saying '’Round, 'round, 'round, 'round...' as if giving in to the notion that there's no escaping the orbit of his former relationship. It's a moment of relapse, where the melody and lyrics become cyclic, mimicking the endless loop of thoughts and memories that haunt someone unable to let go.

Finally, the verse reveals a deeper layer of Joji's emotional state, where he mentally clings to the relationship despite recognizing its end ('Hard to think about you anymore / But I keep you in my mind always'). The contradictory nature of wanting to escape the pain while at the same time holding onto the lingering connection is a testament to the complexity of love and loss. The song concludes with a bittersweet acceptance that it's 'Better if you stay away,' acknowledging the need for separation as a means to healing, while still longing for their presence.