Kasumi

Dir en Grey's song 'Kasumi' is a poignant exploration of childhood memories, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics, written in Japanese, paint a vivid picture of a child's world filled with both wonder and sorrow. The imagery of 'りんごあめ' (candied apple) and 'かみふうせん' (paper balloon) evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of traditional Japanese festivals. These symbols of innocence and joy are juxtaposed with the child's tears and the haunting question, 'ねえ ままは どこにいるの' (Hey, where is mom?), suggesting a deep sense of abandonment and longing.

The song's narrative unfolds through a series of evocative scenes, such as the 'はちがつの ぎおんざか' (Gion Hill in August) and the 'ちいさな このこ が のぞむ ほほえんだ' (the small child who wishes and smiles). These moments are tinged with a bittersweet quality, as the child clings to fleeting memories while grappling with the harsh reality that 'ごがつは こない' (May will not come). This line metaphorically signifies the end of a hopeful period, reinforcing the theme of lost innocence.

As the song progresses, the imagery becomes more somber. The 'かみふうせん を そらへ たかく' (paper balloon high into the sky) filled with tears symbolizes the release of sorrow, yet the 'あかい あめだま おもいで が ほら' (red candy apple memories) melting away signifies the inevitable fading of cherished moments. The recurring motif of tears and the question of when they will end ('あと なんねん で なみだ が おわる') underscores the enduring pain of loss. The final image of the girl remaining silent under the tatami mat ('かのじょ は むくちに いまも たたみ の した') leaves a haunting impression, suggesting that some wounds never fully heal.