The official lyrics to the Mario theme song were written in response to a Japanese radio contest. Nintendo released a vinyl version of the song in 1985.
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And here is the English translation.
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It begins by exhorting Mario to do what he knows is right.
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And continues by telling us of his great strength and bravery in the face of incredible adversity.
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Nintendo
Then we learn of the strange powers and abilities that make him more than just a man.
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Nintendo
And as the song continues, it becomes clear that Mario is no mere mortal, but the hero we have awaited all these long years.
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After the chorus, there is an epic spoken part that tells the tale we are all so familiar with with haunting lyrical beauty.
Corey Arcangel
Corey Arcangel
Corey Arcangel
Then it basically repeats the chorus with some slight variations, beginning with this rousing call to arms.
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Go and beat the Koopa tribe, go! Today, full of energy, Mario runs. Today, full of energy, jumping! Today, full of energy, searching for coins. Today, keep going, Mario!
Get a star — become invincible! Quickly, go save Princess Peach!
Lakitu! Blooper! Cheep Cheep! Beat them all! Mario is always full of energy and strong!
And finally, it ends with a powerful flourish that will surely inspire anyone who hears it to do great deeds.
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This is basically 20th-century version of the Iliad.
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