Lilium

Kumiko Noma's 'Lilium' is a hauntingly beautiful song that draws heavily from religious and classical themes. The lyrics are primarily in Latin, which adds a layer of solemnity and timelessness to the piece. The song opens with 'Os iusti meditabitur sapientiam,' which translates to 'The mouth of the righteous shall meditate wisdom.' This sets the tone for a contemplative and spiritual journey, emphasizing the pursuit of wisdom and righteousness. The subsequent lines, 'Et lingua eius loquetur indicium,' meaning 'And his tongue shall speak judgment,' further underscore the importance of moral integrity and the power of words in conveying truth and justice.

The song then shifts to a more personal and introspective tone with 'Beatus vir qui suffert tentationem,' translating to 'Blessed is the man who endures temptation.' This line speaks to the virtue of perseverance and the spiritual rewards that come with overcoming life's challenges. The phrase 'Quoniam cum probatus fuerit accipient coronam vitae,' meaning 'For when he has been proven, he shall receive the crown of life,' reinforces the idea of divine reward for those who remain steadfast in their faith and moral convictions.

The repeated invocation 'Kyrie ignis divine eleison,' which means 'Lord, divine fire, have mercy,' adds a plea for divine intervention and grace. The song concludes with a series of praises for the Virgin Mary, described as 'Oh quam sancta, quam serena, quam benigna, quam amoena,' translating to 'Oh how holy, how serene, how kind, how pleasant.' The final line, 'Oh castitatis lillium,' or 'Oh lily of chastity,' symbolizes purity and virtue, encapsulating the song's overarching themes of holiness, serenity, and divine grace.