I'm So Happy
L'Arc~en~Ciel
The Paradox of Pain and Love in L'Arc~en~Ciel's 'I'm So Happy'
L'Arc~en~Ciel's song 'I'm So Happy' delves into the complex interplay between suffering and love. The lyrics, written in Japanese with a refrain in English, paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply in love but simultaneously experiencing profound pain. The opening lines suggest that the narrator might appear to be in great distress, yet they plead not to be 'killed'—a metaphor for not being abandoned or forgotten—until they truly close their eyes, possibly alluding to death or the end of their suffering.
The song continues to explore themes of regret and longing. The narrator acknowledges that they are facing the consequences of their actions ('つけがまわってきたようだ'), yet they implore their loved ones not to be saddened by their plight. This juxtaposition of appearing 'crazy' or being laughed at while still yearning for understanding and compassion highlights the internal conflict between their outward suffering and inner emotional turmoil.
Throughout the song, natural elements like flowers, water, and light are used as metaphors for the passage of time and the ephemeral nature of life. The narrator's desire to be reborn and stay closer to their loved one in another life underscores the depth of their emotional attachment. The repeated refrain 'I love you, I'm so happy with love' serves as a poignant contrast to the verses filled with pain, suggesting that love, despite its accompanying suffering, brings a profound sense of happiness and fulfillment. This duality captures the essence of human experience, where joy and sorrow often coexist.