The song "Criminal" by Justin Nozuka tells the story of a person who accidentally breaks a bottle on the street and feels guilty about it. The song explores the emotions and consequences that arise from this incident. In the first verse, the narrator throws a bottle into the air and it shatters into many pieces on the concrete street. They become concerned about waking up the neighborhood and potentially causing harm to the children who play barefoot on the street. The guilt starts to weigh on them, and they feel unwell. The chorus repeats the phrase "I'm a criminal," emphasizing the feeling of guilt and responsibility the narrator carries for the incident. In the second verse, the narrator wakes up after passing out and realizes the guilt has disappeared. They have no concern or care and continue with their daily routine, even while others are suffering from the broken glass on the street. There is a mention of a little girl crying because the glass caused her feet to bleed. The bridge of the song depicts the narrator's contemplation of escaping from their guilt by changing their identity and moving to Mexico. They discuss dyeing their hair red, getting surgery on their nose, and starting a new life there. The prospect of living in Mexico, away from their past actions, seems enticing to them. Overall, "Criminal" explores the themes of guilt, responsibility, and consequences for one's actions. The narrator grapples with their regrets and weighs the possibility of starting a new life to escape their past mistakes.
