Ashiato (Ending 8)

The song 'Ashiato (Ending 8)' by Boku no Hero (My Hero Academia) delves into themes of self-discovery, farewells, and the hope of reunion. The lyrics begin with a poignant farewell, 'さよならさ 行かなくちゃ' (Goodbye, I have to go), setting a tone of departure and the necessity of moving forward. The protagonist is on a journey to become their true self, as emphasized by the line '僕よ 僕になれと叫ぶ' (I shout to become myself). This journey is not just physical but also deeply emotional and introspective, aiming to meet a significant person once again at the end of the path.

The song reflects on the past, where the protagonist often saw the world through the perspective of another person, 'いつだって君越しの世界を見てた' (I always saw the world through you). This perspective has shaped their experiences and emotions, including unnoticed tears and a dislike for the word '大丈夫' (It's okay). The sudden expression of these feelings leaves the protagonist speechless, highlighting the complexity of their emotional state.

'Ashiato' also touches on the importance of believing in a brighter future, even when the sky is dim, '薄暗い空の先を信じたい' (I want to believe in the future beyond the dim sky). The song encourages embracing one's aspirations not as a means to negate oneself but to affirm one's identity. The repeated farewells and the hope of meeting again, 'さよならさ いつかまた会おう' (Goodbye, let's meet again someday), underscore the enduring connection between the protagonist and the significant person. The footprints they leave behind symbolize their journey and the hope that their paths will cross once more, '僕ら残す足跡 もう一度重なるように' (The footprints we leave behind, so they overlap once more).