ターミナル (Terminal)
Natori
Eternal Escapism: The Journey of 'ターミナル (Terminal)' by Natori
Natori's song 'ターミナル (Terminal)' is a poetic exploration of escapism, longing, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nocturnal journey, where the protagonist finds themselves in a city that is both familiar and alien. The recurring imagery of shadows, rain, and the quiet of the night sets a melancholic tone, suggesting a sense of isolation and introspection. The 'terminal' in the song symbolizes a point of departure, a place where one can leave behind the mundane and venture into the unknown.
The song's chorus, with lines like 'ここが僕らのターミナル' (This is our terminal) and 'どこにだって、連れていってあげる' (I'll take you anywhere), emphasizes the desire to escape and explore new horizons. This yearning for adventure is contrasted with the reality of the protagonist's life, which is described as 'つまらなくて' (boring). The mention of a 'メリーゴーランド' (merry-go-round) and 'サイレン' (siren) further adds to the surreal and dreamlike quality of the song, highlighting the tension between reality and fantasy.
The lyrics also delve into themes of loss and resignation. The protagonist reflects on missed opportunities and the passage of time, wondering 'どこで間違えたんだろうか' (Where did I go wrong?). Despite the sense of regret, there is also a resolve to move forward, as seen in the lines '逃げ出した世界を、僕は置き去りに' (I leave behind the world I ran away from). The song concludes with a bittersweet farewell to the world, encapsulating the eternal quest for something more meaningful and the acceptance of life's inherent uncertainties.