La Sola

Kenji Kawai's 'La Sola' is a hauntingly beautiful composition that delves into themes of immortality, loss, and the ephemeral nature of human existence. The lyrics, sung in Italian, evoke a sense of timelessness and the eternal struggle between the mortal and the divine. The opening lines, 'Resterà la maschera di te nel mondo eterna,' suggest the idea of a mask or facade that remains eternal in the world, symbolizing how one's legacy or image can outlive their physical presence. This mask is described as 'immutevole,' or unchanging, highlighting the contrast between the eternal and the transient.

The song continues to explore the concept of glory and myth, with lines like 'Gloria brucerà la vita, limpida virtù nel mito,' which translates to 'Glory will burn life, clear virtue in the myth.' Here, Kawai seems to be commenting on how the pursuit of glory and virtue can consume one's life, transforming them into a mythic figure. This transformation is both a blessing and a curse, as it elevates the individual to an epic illusion but also strips away their humanity, making them 'non più fragile mortale,' or 'no longer a fragile mortal.'

The recurring refrain, 'Condanna! Disfatta! Per me, la sola che non ha più te,' which means 'Condemnation! Defeat! For me, the only one who no longer has you,' adds a deeply personal and emotional layer to the song. It speaks to the pain of loss and the feeling of being left behind, condemned to live without the presence of a loved one. This sense of personal defeat contrasts sharply with the earlier themes of eternal glory, grounding the song in a poignant human experience. Through 'La Sola,' Kenji Kawai masterfully weaves together themes of immortality, myth, and personal loss, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and reflections on the human condition.