Till I

Hiroyuki Sawano's 'Till I' is a poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and the human condition, set against a backdrop of uncertainty and emotional turmoil. The song delves into the complexities of memory and truth, questioning whether the truth is inherently painful. The lyrics, 'I want to know if truth is painful or not,' reflect a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to confront reality, even if it brings discomfort. This theme is further emphasized by the imagery of '涙のあとが乾いていくほどに,' which translates to 'as the tears dry up,' suggesting a process of healing and moving forward despite the emotional scars left behind.

The chorus, 'Cause I meant to be your piece until I die / No one’s wanna be alone,' underscores a profound commitment to another person, highlighting the universal fear of loneliness. This sentiment is echoed in the lines, 'Though we fall apart between the hell’s divide / 求められるならずっとそばで stay the same,' which convey a willingness to remain steadfast and supportive, even in the face of adversity. The use of metaphors like 'hell’s divide' illustrates the challenges and obstacles that can strain relationships, yet the resolve to stay together remains unwavering.

Sawano's lyrics also touch on the theme of vulnerability and the struggle to protect oneself from emotional pain. The line, '臆病になってた大人びるほどに / Cries swallowed down but you don’t mind,' speaks to the fear of getting hurt as one matures, and the tendency to suppress emotions to avoid further suffering. However, the plea, 'Don’t let me be your wound / Wash off all you’ve been bound,' suggests a desire for mutual healing and liberation from past traumas. The song ultimately conveys a message of enduring love and loyalty, encapsulated in the closing lines, 'Till I die / By your side,' reaffirming the commitment to stand by a loved one through all of life's uncertainties.