失業生

By 陳百強

寒風中 街上滿落葉
獨嘆息 臉上淚還熱
考過 等於失業 人生苦短
怨恨重重疊 留連荒街 希望似破滅
父母親 寄望正強烈
開始經過 艱苦的歲月
誰不想 繼續學業
求職苦 爭逐正白熱
運氣差 我白費唇舌
僧多粥少 此爭彼奪
望休將 勝敗論豪傑
難求一職 空負壯志熱
沒法子 試盡各行業
幾番失意 天真早告別
仍深信 去路未曾絕
About This Song

The song "" (Unemployed Youth) by renowned Hong Kong artist (Danny Chan) captures the poignant struggles faced by young individuals navigating the harsh realities of life after education. The main theme revolves around the sense of disillusionment and despair that accompanies unemployment, particularly in a competitive society where expectations are high. With imagery of falling leaves in the cold wind, the song evokes a feeling of loneliness and the weight of unfulfilled dreams, articulating the emotional core that resonates deeply with listeners who have experienced similar frustrations in their pursuit of career success.

The narrative unfolds through the personal reflections of an unemployed youth grappling with the pressure imposed by parental expectations and societal norms. Each verse layers the singer's feelings of bitterness and inactivity as he confronts the stark truth of age-old wisdom: hard work does not guarantee success. This poignant exploration of youth's dashed hopes illustrates a familiar story for many, as it delves into the innate desire to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society, only to face an uphill battle in the job market characterized by competition and adversity.

Musically, "" is marked by its emotive melody that complements the song's introspective lyrics. Chan's evocative vocal delivery is highlighted by subtle orchestrations and harmonic progressions that enhance the sense of longing and frustration depicted in the lyrics. Notably, the use of imagery in the lyrics, such as " " (in the cold wind, the street is covered with fallen leaves), provides a vivid backdrop that skillfully conveys the artist's inner turmoil and sense of entrapment.

Culturally, the song reflects significant themes relevant to the socio-economic climate of the time it was released, resonating particularly with the youth struggling to find their place in a rapidly changing world. The sentiments of the song continue to ring true today, as many young people worldwide face similar challenges in their quest for employment in an increasingly competitive landscape. Thus, "" not only stands as a testament to Danny Chan's lyrical and musical prowess but also serves as a cultural artifact that poignantly articulates the universal struggles of youth.