金木犀 (Osmanthus)

Natori's song '金木犀 (Osmanthus)' is a poignant exploration of loneliness, longing, and the ephemeral nature of human connections. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a cityscape at night, where the protagonist is enveloped by the lights and distant sounds of sirens, creating a sense of isolation and introspection. The recurring imagery of the osmanthus flower, known for its delicate and fleeting fragrance, serves as a metaphor for the transient beauty of moments and relationships that linger in memory but are ultimately unattainable.

The song's narrative unfolds in the quiet hours of the night, specifically at 2 AM, a time often associated with deep reflection and emotional vulnerability. The protagonist finds solace in the words of a significant other, whose presence is felt even in their absence. This connection, however, is fraught with a sense of impermanence and fragility, as indicated by the lines '息が苦しくて、吐き気がしそうだ' (I feel like I can't breathe, I feel nauseous) and 'あまりにも脆くて、壊れそうだ' (It's too fragile, it feels like it will break). These expressions of physical discomfort mirror the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist.

As the song progresses, the protagonist resolves to continue their journey through the 'transparent city,' guided by the sounds and sights that offer a semblance of direction. Despite the pervasive sadness and the inevitability of pain, there is a determination to move forward, even if it means embracing the uncertainty and the potential for further heartbreak. The final farewell to the osmanthus and the acceptance of '安っぽい言い訳' (cheap excuses) highlight a bittersweet resignation to the realities of life and love, where the beauty of fleeting moments is cherished, even as they fade away.