Yasashii Boukyaku

“Yasashii Boukyaku” by Chihara Minori is a poignant exploration of memory, existence, and the passage of time. The song delves into the introspective journey of the narrator as they grapple with the ephemeral nature of the world and their place within it. The opening lines, “Nozomu koto wa nani? Watashi ga toi kakeru” (What do you wish for? I ask myself), set the tone for a reflective and contemplative narrative. The narrator questions their desires and the truth behind their needs, suggesting a deep inner conflict and a search for meaning in a transient world.

The recurring theme of memory and forgetfulness is central to the song. The lyrics, “Memuru hibi no naka Watashi ni nokoru no wa Kioku sore te mo, boukyaku darou ka” (In the days that close, what remains with me are memories, but will they turn into forgetfulness?), highlight the delicate balance between holding onto memories and the inevitable fading of those memories over time. This duality is further emphasized by the imagery of a disappearing world where the narrator still has a place, even if they are unaware of it themselves. This suggests a sense of belonging and identity that persists despite the impermanence of the surrounding world.

The song also touches on the concept of chosen futures and the doors that lead to them. The lines, “Erabareta mirai wo Miokuru tobira Negai ga kanatte mo Wasurenai de, wasurenai de” (The door to the chosen future, even if wishes come true, don’t forget, don’t forget), convey a sense of hope and the importance of remembering one’s aspirations and dreams. Despite the passage of time and the changes it brings, the narrator urges themselves and the listener to hold onto their wishes and the essence of who they are. This message resonates deeply, offering a gentle reminder of the enduring power of memory and the significance of self-awareness in an ever-changing world.