Romance
Hiromi Iwasaki
The Sweet Vulnerability of First Love in 'Romance'
Hiromi Iwasaki's song 'Romance' beautifully captures the tender and vulnerable emotions of first love. The lyrics express a deep longing and desire for closeness, as the protagonist pleads with her beloved to stay by her side. The repeated request, 'あなたおねがいよ 席を立たないで' (Please, don't leave your seat), highlights her fear of being alone and her need for the comforting presence of her loved one. This plea is a poignant reflection of the insecurity and dependency often felt in the early stages of love.
The song also delves into the transformative power of love. The protagonist describes how being loved for the first time makes her feel beautiful and cherished. The line '生まれて初めて 愛されて 私はきれいになってゆく' (For the first time in my life, I am loved, and I am becoming beautiful) illustrates how love can enhance one's self-perception and bring about a sense of happiness and fulfillment. This transformation is likened to a '甘い甘いロマンス' (sweet, sweet romance), emphasizing the joy and sweetness that love brings into her life.
Moreover, 'Romance' touches on the theme of devotion and the willingness to go to great lengths for a loved one. The protagonist expresses a readiness to follow her beloved anywhere, even through storms and over long distances. This unwavering commitment is a testament to the depth of her feelings and the strength of her love. The imagery of being a '迷子のようね' (like a lost child) further underscores her vulnerability and dependence on her beloved for guidance and support. Through its heartfelt lyrics, 'Romance' paints a vivid picture of the emotional highs and lows of first love, capturing its essence with sincerity and warmth.