Obokuri Eeumi

Ikue Asazaki's 'Obokuri Eeumi' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit's enduring quest for a better life. The lyrics, sung in a traditional Japanese style, paint vivid pictures of a community striving to build a new home and life, despite the challenges they face. The song begins with a call to search for a new land and build a new house, symbolizing a fresh start and the hope for a better future. The repeated imagery of gathering hay and thatching the roof speaks to the meticulous effort and care required to create a stable and secure environment.

As the song progresses, it highlights the communal effort involved in building this new life. The mention of a 'golden house' built by a hundred carpenters emphasizes the importance of unity and collective effort. This part of the song celebrates the strength found in community and the shared joy of achieving something significant together. The stone walls and the golden house serve as metaphors for the strength and value of the community's combined efforts.

The final verses of the song shift to a more personal perspective, expressing the singer's desire to dress up and celebrate despite having little to wear. This longing is poignantly captured in the image of wearing vines picked from the mountains, symbolizing resourcefulness and the ability to find beauty and dignity even in scarcity. The full moon shining far and wide like the gods adds a touch of spirituality and hope, suggesting that even in difficult times, there is a higher power watching over and guiding them. The wish for the clouds to hide the moon when the lover visits adds a layer of intimacy and personal longing, rounding out the song's rich tapestry of emotions and themes.