またねがあれば (matane ga areba)
Mirei Touyama
A Bittersweet Farewell: The Emotional Journey of 'またねがあれば (matane ga areba)' by Mirei Touyama
Mirei Touyama's song 'またねがあれば (matane ga areba)' is a poignant exploration of love, regret, and the bittersweet nature of farewells. The lyrics delve into the emotional aftermath of a relationship, capturing the complexity of feelings that arise when parting ways with someone significant. The song opens with the singer reflecting on her few regrets, such as not being able to give a birthday present or show off a particular outfit. These small, seemingly trivial regrets highlight the deeper emotional weight of the impending goodbye.
The narrative continues with the singer grappling with the practicalities of moving on, like cleaning up her room, while also dealing with the emotional turmoil. She contemplates the timing of the farewell, wondering if it would be easier in different seasons, each bringing its own set of challenges and memories. This seasonal metaphor underscores the cyclical nature of emotions and the inevitability of change. The singer's internal dialogue reveals a struggle between wanting to hold on and the necessity of letting go, a universal theme that resonates with anyone who has experienced a significant loss.
As the song progresses, the singer reminisces about the 36 months spent together, filled with both happiness and regret. She acknowledges the irreplaceable joy and the unique experiences shared, which will forever remain a part of her. The repeated phrase 'isshoubun no shiawase' (a lifetime's worth of happiness) emphasizes the depth of her feelings and the lasting impact of the relationship. Despite the pain, she finds solace in the memories and expresses gratitude, urging her former partner to smile as they part ways. The song concludes with a heartfelt 'arigatou' (thank you), encapsulating the essence of a farewell that is both sorrowful and filled with gratitude.