Monokrom - Tulus “Gratitude & Impermanence”

Monokrom is one of my favorite songs in the album Monokrom by Tulus —

Monokrom (Monochrome) refers to a spectrum black, white and the shades in between. In this song, it becomes a metaphor for life itself. Human experience — it unfolds through subtle moments, transitions, encounters and moments that may seem ordinary yet carry lasting meaning.

Monokrom conveys a message about appreciating moments and accepting the impermanence of life. It acknowledges that people (family, friends or closest to us), phases, and experiences may not last forever, yet their presence remains significant. What matters is not duration but impact. An acknowledgment that becoming human is shaped by many presences along the way.

Gratitude in Monokrom is expressed with restraint. Monokrom expresses gratitude toward those who have contributed to one’s becoming as essential elements that once added color and depth to life. This gratitude is calm and deliberate.

Monokrom offers a mature perspective — to remember without attachment or excessive, to value without possession, and to accept that life’s quieter moments often carry the deepest meaning.

That is what makes Monokrom resonate —as a thoughtful reminder of how gratitude can exist without attachment.

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“Lembaran foto hitam-putih Aku coba ingat lagi wangi rumah di sore itu Kue cokelat, balon warna-warni Pesta hari ulang tahunku

Di mana pun kalian berada Kukirimkan terima kasih Untuk warna dalam hidupku dan banyak kenangan indah Kau melukis aku

Lembaran foto hitam-putih Kembali teringat malam, kuhitung-hitung bintang Saat mataku sulit tidur, mm-mm Suaramu buatku lelap, mm-mm

Di mana pun kalian berada Kukirimkan terima kasih Untuk warna dalam hidupku dan banyak kenangan indah Kau melukis aku

Kita tak pernah tahu Berapa lama kita diberi waktu Jika aku pergi lebih dulu, jangan lupakan aku Ini lagu untukmu, ungkapan terima kasihku

Lembar monokrom hitam-putih Aku coba ingat warna demi warna di hidupku Tak akan ku mengenal cinta Bila bukan karena hati baikmu”