学校を休んだ日のこと (When I Was Absent from School)
Kikuo
The Loneliness of Absence: A Dive into Kikuo's 'When I Was Absent from School'
Kikuo's song '学校を休んだ日のこと (When I Was Absent from School)' delves into the feelings of isolation and exclusion that can arise from missing out on social interactions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a child who, having missed a day of school, is left grappling with the fear of being left out and the anxiety of not being part of the shared experiences of their peers. The repeated plea of 'おしえて、おしえて (Tell me, tell me)' underscores the desperation to be included and to understand what was missed.
The song captures the universal childhood fear of being left behind, both literally and metaphorically. The lines 'みんなはきっと、ふつうにしてた (Everyone was probably just acting normal)' and 'しらないはなしがふえるんだ (Stories I don't know are increasing)' highlight the protagonist's sense of alienation. This feeling is further emphasized by the repeated phrase 'なかまはずれもさがしてる (I'm also looking for being left out)', suggesting a deep-seated fear of exclusion that goes beyond just missing a day of school.
Kikuo's musical style often blends whimsical melodies with darker, more introspective themes, creating a contrast that enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics. In 'When I Was Absent from School', this contrast is evident as the seemingly simple and innocent scenario of missing a day of school is imbued with a profound sense of loneliness and the longing for connection. The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt the sting of being left out, making it a poignant exploration of childhood fears and insecurities.