Shinitagari
Hatsune Miku
The Struggle Between Life and Death in 'Shinitagari'
Hatsune Miku's song 'Shinitagari' delves into the complex and often dark emotions surrounding the desire for death and the struggle to find meaning in life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with feelings of despair and apathy, set against the backdrop of a seemingly perfect Sunday. The contrast between the sunny day and the protagonist's inner turmoil highlights the dissonance between external appearances and internal struggles. The repeated phrase 'shinitagari' (wanting to die) underscores the persistent nature of these feelings, while the dismissive tone suggests a sense of resignation and frustration.
The song's narrative voice oscillates between empathy and indifference, reflecting the protagonist's conflicted state of mind. Lines like 'dare mo kamatcha kureya shinai yo' (no one cares if you die) and 'katte ni shiro yo shin dara ii yo' (do as you please, just die) convey a sense of isolation and the belief that their suffering is unnoticed by others. This sentiment is further emphasized by the protagonist's interactions with others, who either fail to understand their pain or offer hollow encouragement. The lyrics also touch on the performative aspect of suffering, with references to 'utsu-byou kidori no ippanjin' (ordinary people pretending to be depressed) and the futility of seeking sympathy.
Despite the bleak themes, the song also hints at a desire for resolution and clarity. The repeated questioning of 'ikiru ka shinu ka' (live or die) and the final exhortation to 'seezee iki nobiro' (live as best as you can) suggest a struggle to find purpose and a reason to continue living. The song captures the raw and unfiltered emotions of someone caught in the throes of existential despair, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition and the search for meaning in the face of overwhelming darkness.