Watashi Dono Watashi
KikuoHana
The Quest for True Identity in 'Watashi Dono Watashi'
In 'Watashi Dono Watashi,' kikuohana delves into the complex themes of identity and self-perception. The song begins with a daughter telling everyone to search for pieces of her, suggesting a fragmented sense of self. She promises to show a version of herself that is exceptionally beautiful, with shining eyes and a high nose, indicating societal standards of beauty. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how external validation and societal expectations shape one's identity.
As the song progresses, various people bring different parts of her—eyes, nose, demeanor, and hair—each contributing to the creation of the 'most beautiful' version of her. This collective effort to construct an ideal self highlights the pressure to conform to societal ideals. However, the repetition of 'ああ ああ ああ' and the imagery of a 'flower or nose banquet' suggest a superficial celebration of beauty. The protagonist questions whether this constructed version of herself will truly attract attention and admiration.
The song takes a darker turn as it describes replicas of herself standing in rows, all with the same face. This imagery evokes a sense of loss of individuality and the anxiety of being indistinguishable from others. The repeated questioning of 'Which me is me and which is not?' underscores the confusion and insecurity that come with trying to meet external expectations. Despite the outward beauty, a 'fountain of anxiety' wells up from deep within, revealing the internal struggle and the perpetual quest for genuine self-acceptance.
'Watashi Dono Watashi' is a poignant reflection on the conflict between societal standards and personal identity. It captures the emotional turmoil of trying to reconcile one's true self with the versions of oneself that are presented to the world.