Ophelia
L'Arc~en~Ciel
The Tragic Elegance of 'Ophelia' by L'Arc~en~Ciel
L'Arc~en~Ciel's song 'Ophelia' is a hauntingly beautiful piece that draws inspiration from the tragic character Ophelia in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet.' The lyrics are imbued with a sense of longing and melancholy, capturing the essence of a love that is both ethereal and unattainable. The song opens with vivid imagery of the beloved wrapped in a beautiful dress, exuding an intoxicating fragrance that symbolizes allure and mystery. This sets the stage for a narrative steeped in romantic despair and unfulfilled desires.
The repeated invocation of 'My dearest Ophelia' underscores the deep emotional connection and the pain of separation. The singer's questions about Ophelia's silence and coldness reflect a yearning for communication and understanding that remains unreciprocated. This silence can be interpreted as a metaphor for emotional distance or the ultimate silence of death, resonating with Ophelia's fate in 'Hamlet.' The glass that evokes memories and the sorrowful gestures that pierce the heart further emphasize the theme of lost love and the haunting presence of the past.
The song's chorus, with its plea for trust and the desire to offer undying love, highlights the desperation and hopelessness of the singer's situation. The imagery of endless kisses and the beloved's distant presence in the night evoke a sense of eternal longing and unfulfilled passion. The reference to wandering far in search of answers and the prayer for the beloved's eyes to open once more encapsulate the tragic beauty of the song. 'Ophelia' by L'Arc~en~Ciel is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring impact of a beloved's absence, wrapped in a poetic and evocative musical composition.