Hikari, Saikou

Amazarashi's song 'Hikari, Saikou' delves deep into the human experience, exploring themes of existentialism, love, and the cyclical nature of life. The lyrics reflect a profound sense of acceptance and resilience, even in the face of life's inevitable struggles and uncertainties. The song opens with a rejection of the idea of being reborn, suggesting a deep attachment to one's current life, despite its imperfections. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, '僕の人生も長い付き合いの中 愛おしくなってくるもんで,' which translates to 'Even my hopeless life becomes dear to me over time.' This sets the tone for a narrative that values the journey, with all its bumps and bruises, over any hypothetical fresh start.

The song's recurring motif of '光' (hikari, meaning 'light') serves as a metaphor for hope, love, and the small moments of joy that punctuate our lives. Despite moments of despair, such as the reference to a god who 'hung himself in a shabby apartment in Asagaya,' the protagonist finds solace in simple, everyday experiences. The imagery of children playing in the park and the homeless person sleeping under a newspaper highlights the stark contrasts in life, yet the protagonist finds beauty in the blue sky and the fleeting moments of connection and love.

A significant part of the song is dedicated to the protagonist's relationship with a woman, whose presence and absence both shape his emotional landscape. Her working nights and his newfound interest in TV shows symbolize the adjustments and compromises inherent in relationships. The song also touches on the idea of chasing dreams and the realization that the pursuit itself is often more fulfilling than the attainment. The lyrics, '本当は手にしたくなんかないんだよ ずっと追いかけていたいんだよ,' meaning 'I don't really want to grasp it; I just want to keep chasing it,' encapsulate this sentiment beautifully. Ultimately, 'Hikari, Saikou' is a poignant reflection on life's dualities—light and shadow, joy and sorrow—and the enduring human spirit that navigates them all.