Wandering
Hako Yamasaki
The Solitary Journey of Self-Discovery in 'Wandering'
Hako Yamasaki's song 'Wandering' delves into the themes of solitude, self-discovery, and the transient nature of home and relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who has left behind their past and is now on a journey, both physically and emotionally. The opening lines, 'ふるさとはない / いまあるくみちだけ' (I have no hometown / Only the path I walk now), set the tone for the song, emphasizing the protagonist's detachment from their roots and the focus on the present journey.
The song reflects on the fading memories of what once was cherished, as seen in the lines 'いつのまにかいろあせ / うすれてしまった / こいしかったはずの / あのやまやま' (Before I knew it, they faded / The mountains I once longed for). This fading of the past symbolizes the inevitable change and the loss of what was once familiar and comforting. The protagonist's fear of the unknown is also evident in 'わたしのはだにつきささる / あのきりのしろさがこわかった' (The whiteness of that fog piercing my skin was frightening), highlighting the anxiety that comes with stepping into uncharted territories.
The theme of isolation is further explored with 'あいするひとはない / いまひとりさすらいのなか' (I have no one to love / Now I wander alone). Despite encountering kind people along the way, the protagonist feels unable to open their heart, as expressed in 'こころをみせられない / いまのわたしなのさ' (I can't show my heart / That's who I am now). This emotional barrier signifies a deep-seated fear of vulnerability and a preference for solitude over potential pain. The song concludes with a sense of acceptance and resilience, 'たったひとりのものだから / どんなあしたもこわくない' (Because I am alone / I am not afraid of any tomorrow), embracing the uncertainty of the future with courage and self-reliance.