Hotaru

Fujita Maiko's song 'Hotaru' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The title 'Hotaru,' which means 'firefly' in Japanese, serves as a central metaphor throughout the song. Fireflies are known for their ephemeral glow, which can be mesmerizing yet fleeting, much like the feelings of love that the singer experiences. The lyrics describe a quiet, rainy night, setting a melancholic tone that mirrors the singer's internal struggle.

The firefly metaphor is used to illustrate the allure and elusiveness of the person the singer loves. Just as one is tempted to capture a firefly to hold onto its light, the singer is drawn to the person they love, despite knowing that their feelings may never be reciprocated. The repeated lines 'もういいかい まだ見たい' (Is it okay now? I still want to see) and '掴めない 届かない' (Can't grasp, can't reach) emphasize the singer's frustration and longing. The firefly's light is best appreciated from a distance, much like the singer's love, which is painful to pursue too closely.

The song delves into the emotional complexity of loving someone whose feelings are unclear. The singer expresses a deep yearning to understand the other person's heart, yet acknowledges the pain that comes with this desire. The lines 'あなたの気持ちが見えない' (I can't see your feelings) and '望むほど苦しくなる' (The more I wish, the more it hurts) capture this inner conflict. Despite the heartache, the singer admits they cannot bring themselves to dislike the person, highlighting the enduring nature of their affection. The song concludes with the arrival of summer, symbolizing a new season and perhaps a glimmer of hope or change.