Kokoku

Laurie Anderson's 'Kokoku' is a mesmerizing exploration of existence, perception, and the passage of time. The song's lyrics, interspersed with Japanese phrases, create a surreal and contemplative atmosphere. Anderson begins by describing her brief presence in a place, observing its movements and changes. The recurring imagery of 'mountains with clouds' and 'a cry' evokes a sense of timelessness and natural beauty, while the phrases 'Watashino sakebi' (my cry) and 'Watashino koewo' (my voice) emphasize personal expression and the human experience.

The song delves into themes of loss and disorientation, with Anderson repeatedly stating, 'I am here now. And lost.' This sense of being lost is juxtaposed with the idea of the dead rising again and strange animals from the Ice Age appearing, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life and the persistence of the past in the present. The lyrics suggest a collective denial or avoidance of these unsettling phenomena, as seen in the lines, 'Maybe if we pretend this never happened, they'll all just go away.' This reflects a broader commentary on humanity's tendency to ignore uncomfortable truths.

Anderson's use of Japanese language and imagery adds a layer of cultural depth to the song. Phrases like 'Jikanwa tomaru' (time is stopped) and 'Ushano kokoku' (home of the brave) blend with the English lyrics to create a sense of universality and interconnectedness. The song also touches on the idea of observation and self-awareness, with references to distant stars and alien creatures watching Earth. This cosmic perspective highlights the smallness of human concerns in the grand scheme of the universe. Ultimately, 'Kokoku' is a thought-provoking meditation on existence, perception, and the passage of time, inviting listeners to reflect on their place in the world and the cosmos.