Onigiri

Hisakawa Aya's song 'Onigiri' is a delightful ode to the simple joys of life, encapsulated through the metaphor of making and enjoying rice balls, or onigiri. The song opens with the imagery of a rice cooker lid being lifted, revealing a 'mysterious white world,' which symbolizes the purity and simplicity of freshly cooked rice. This sets the stage for a narrative that intertwines everyday activities with deeper emotional undertones.

The act of making onigiri is described with loving detail, from sprinkling salt on one's palm to wrapping the hot rice with affection. The various fillings mentioned—okaka (bonito flakes), tsukada (pickled vegetables), kombu (seaweed), umeboshi (pickled plum), and mentaiko (spicy cod roe)—represent the choices and small decisions that make life flavorful and interesting. The indecision about which filling to choose reflects the small yet significant choices we make daily.

As the song progresses, it shifts from the kitchen to a more personal setting, where the protagonist runs to a bookstore, excited about a new release. This scene captures the anticipation and joy of simple pleasures. The mention of a 'special seat' on a tree in the mountains, known only to the protagonist, adds a layer of personal nostalgia and secret joy. The recurring theme of onigiri is used to symbolize these moments of happiness and love, whether it's the thrill of a new book or the fluttering emotions of a budding romance. The song's repetitive chorus, 'Nigi nigi nigi onigiri,' emphasizes the repetitive yet comforting nature of these small joys, making 'Onigiri' a heartwarming celebration of life's simple pleasures.