Kikuchiyo to Mohshimasu

Pink Martini's 'Kikuchiyo to Mohshimasu' is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the essence of fleeting love and the bittersweet nature of memories. The song's title, which translates to 'My Name is Kikuchiyo,' sets the stage for a narrative that unfolds in a night club illuminated by blue lights. The protagonist, Kikuchiyo, is a figure of grace and sorrow, whose presence evokes a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The lyrics describe a night of dancing and tender embraces, where Kikuchiyo's gentle shoulders tremble with an inexplicable sadness. This imagery paints a vivid picture of a moment suspended in time, filled with both beauty and sorrow.

The second verse shifts to a more intimate setting, a foggy hotel in Akasaka, where the lovers spent their nights. The lyrics speak of the protagonist's beloved, whose once radiant cheeks have now become lonely and wet with tears. This transition from the night club to the hotel room symbolizes the deepening of their relationship, yet also foreshadows its inevitable end. The fog that envelops the hotel serves as a metaphor for the uncertainty and transience of their love, as well as the emotional distance that grows between them.

In the final verse, Kikuchiyo expresses a desire to be forgotten, to disappear like a fleeting shadow. The plea to leave behind only a sweet and painful memory encapsulates the essence of the song. It is a poignant reflection on the impermanence of love and the lingering impact of past relationships. The repetition of 'Kikuchiyo to mohshimasu' throughout the song reinforces the protagonist's identity and the emotional weight of their story. Pink Martini's musical style, which blends elements of classical, jazz, and world music, adds a layer of sophistication and timelessness to this evocative tale of love and loss.