Humility, anonymity, and the desire to be anonymous highlight the obedient daydreamer’s CIAB. It begins with Emily Dickinson. Poem read by the teen:

I’m Nobody! Who are you?

Are you – Nobody – too?

Then there’s a pair of us!

Don’t tell! They’d advertise – you know! How dreary – to be somebody!

How public – like a Frog – To tell one’s name –

the livelong June –

To an admiring Bog!

Many scholars have immersed themselves in the poem’s layers of meaning, which lends itself to a kaleidoscope of interpretations. After a thorough evaluation of the teen’s entire CIAB history, it becomes clear that the poem encapsulates the themes of freedom and independence often associated with the choice to embrace anonymity while grappling with feelings of loneliness and yearning.

As Dickinson’s poem elegantly illustrates, the path of being “somebody” can often feel “dreary,” painting a vivid picture of individuals who desperately seek the limelight, much like frogs croaking in the night, hoping for an audience. In contemporary society, this phenomenon is glaringly evident as adolescents navigate the vast world of social media—a seemingly endless stage where influencers seek validation, contributing to a culture of superficial admiration and attention-seeking behavior.

As the poem reaches its poignant conclusion, we transition to a gentle, home recording of the teen diligently practicing a classical piano piece. The delicate notes resonate softly, enveloping the space where she is accompanied only by the presence of her family. In the background, a younger sibling is heard. The music flows with a slow, soothing grace. For us, the other “nobody” that is referred to by Dickinson, we are allowed to be part of the teen’s world – even if it is just for a moment.

For many Chinese teens, the journey of mastering a musical instrument can feel like a rite of passage, deeply influenced by the pressures of parental expectations. This moment captures the essence of their obedience, reflecting a life where the desire to make others proud often takes precedence over their own personal dreams. The weight of fulfilling parental ambitions can be overwhelming, as these young individuals navigate a landscape filled with high expectations. Yet, despite this pressure, the obedient daydreamer has managed to carve out a hiding place —a precious space where they can explore her true self through the soothing melodies of French and Korean music, creating an intimate world that she nurtures quietly.

Delving into these unfamiliar musical realms signifies a yearning within her—a longing to discover her identity away from the prying eyes of the outside world – and their family. In these moments of solitude, the obedient daydreamer expresses herself in languages unfamiliar to those around her. This exploration may serve as a subtle rebellion against the expectations imposed on her, offering a deep sense of comfort in their journey of self-discovery. In these notes and rhythms, the obedient daydreamer finds not only comfort but the courage to embrace who they truly are, reminding us all of the importance of nurturing one’s inner voice amidst the noise of expectations.

Va va vus by Florina allows the listener to  hear the obedient daydreamer’s inner longing for the desire of another’s love

Aime-la fait comme tu peux,

Si jamais ton cœur hésite (Love her as you can, even if your heart hesitates)

and the need to break free –

N’oublis pas de sourire en cheminm

Va va vis, va va, mon ami,

Et le destin pourrait bien changer d’avis,

Oh, va a, va

(Don’t forget to smile, go, go, go my friend, fate just may change your mind, go, go live).  

The song opens with an ethereal ambiance, immersing the listener in a dreamy soundscape that feels both haunting and uplifting. As the delicate tones unfold, the gradual introduction of rhythmical drums adds a sense of momentum, painting a vivid picture of a gentle yet resolute march into the unknown. The use of reverberation between tracks creates a shimmering effect, linking the softer segments with a mesmerizing continuity. This seamless transition gives way to an explosive shift into the high-energy, rock-infused anthem performed by the K-pop group Le Sserafim. The contrast between the tranquil and the electrifying climax not only heightens the emotional experience but also draws the listener deeper into the obedient daydreamer’s journey.

The lyrics are confident, sung in Korean and English (excerpt from the song):

솔직한 내 목소리를 들어줘 (Listen to my honest voice),

난 나일 뿐이야 (ain’t no fear now).

The teen wants to scream:

I’m no freakin’ angel,

I’m no freakin’ goddess,

그리고 네일뿌니야 (Ooh, hold me tight),

어지러운 셍 곽 자바져 항상 (always hold on tight to this dizzying world) because you’re by my side.