Ai No Jikken
Lily Chou Chou
The Experimental Nature of Love in 'Ai No Jikken'
Lily Chou Chou's 'Ai No Jikken' delves into the complexities and paradoxes of love through a series of poetic and enigmatic lyrics. The song opens with a mutual recognition between two individuals, emphasizing the connection and distance between them. The repeated lines 'I see you, you see me' and 'You see me, I see you' suggest a cyclical and reciprocal relationship, where both parties are aware of each other yet remain somewhat distant, as indicated by the Japanese phrases 'Tooku wo miru' (looking far away) and 'Haruka tooku wo' (far away in the distance).
The song then transitions into a more intimate connection with the lines 'I'm in you, you're in me,' which evoke a sense of unity and merging of identities. The references to 'Eeteru no umi' (the sea of ether) and 'Kuooku no soto' (outside the void) add a layer of metaphysical depth, suggesting that this connection transcends the physical realm and enters a more spiritual or existential plane. This intertwining of selves is further complicated by the notion of 'Ai no jikken' (the experiment of love), which implies that love is not just a feeling but a process of discovery and uncertainty.
The chorus explores various facets of love, describing it as something that dances, flies, does, buys, blooms, and loves. These actions highlight the multifaceted nature of love, portraying it as both active and passive, tangible and intangible. The juxtaposition of 'Life like dead' and 'Dead like life' underscores the paradoxical and often contradictory experiences that love can bring. The song closes with a return to the mutual recognition of 'I see you, you see me,' reinforcing the ongoing and ever-evolving nature of love.
Lily Chou Chou, known for her ethereal and haunting musical style, uses 'Ai No Jikken' to explore the experimental and often bewildering aspects of love. The song's lyrical ambiguity and rich metaphors invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions of love, making it a deeply personal and introspective piece.