Kogarashi Sentiment
Saitou Chiwa
The Melancholic Echoes of Lost Love in 'Kogarashi Sentiment'
Saitou Chiwa's 'Kogarashi Sentiment' is a poignant exploration of lost love and the bittersweet memories that linger long after a relationship has ended. The song's lyrics are steeped in nostalgia, with the imagery of 'kogarashi'—a cold, withering wind—serving as a metaphor for the chilling memories that have frozen in time. The singer reflects on a past relationship, where even the reasons for their tears have been forgotten, leaving behind only the beautiful, yet painful, memories.
The recurring theme of 'Mou ichido, Mou nidoto' (Once more, never again) underscores the conflicting emotions of wanting to relive those moments while knowing they can never be the same. The lyrics speak of words that can no longer be said and answers that remain unspoken, encapsulating the essence of regret and the longing for what once was. The 'raburetaa' (love letter) that never reached its destination symbolizes the unfulfilled promises and the paths not taken, adding to the song's melancholic tone.
The song also delves into the idea of selective memory, where the warmth and tenderness of the past are remembered, but the pain and sadness are left behind. This selective recollection is evident in lines like 'Osanai mama yasashii mama' (Innocent and gentle) and 'Nukumori dake okiwasurete' (Only the warmth is forgotten). The singer's voice, filled with a gentle sadness, perfectly complements the lyrical content, making 'Kogarashi Sentiment' a hauntingly beautiful reflection on love, loss, and the passage of time.