Saraba Koibito

Sakai Masaaki's song 'Saraba Koibito' (translated as 'Goodbye, My Love') is a poignant exploration of love, regret, and self-realization. The lyrics open with the protagonist writing a farewell letter and leaving it on the table as their partner sleeps. This act of departure is not done in anger but in a quiet, contemplative manner, suggesting a deep internal struggle and a sense of inevitability about the separation.

The recurring theme in the song is the realization of happiness that was taken for granted. The couple was always happy, but they failed to recognize it. This acknowledgment comes too late, as the protagonist is now alone, walking through the cold wind of dawn. The lyrics emphasize that the fault lies with the protagonist, not their partner, highlighting a sense of personal responsibility and regret.

As the protagonist looks back from the window of a swaying train, they see their home growing smaller in the distance. This moment triggers a heartfelt cry, promising to return someday. The map to their hometown is metaphorically thrown into a sea of tears, symbolizing the emotional turmoil and the difficulty of finding their way back. The song's repetition of the lines about unrecognized happiness and personal fault underscores the depth of the protagonist's regret and the emotional weight of their journey.

'Saraba Koibito' is a touching narrative that delves into the complexities of love and the pain of parting. It speaks to the universal experience of realizing the value of what we had only after it's gone, and the personal growth that comes from acknowledging our own mistakes.