Uewo Muite Arukou

Sakamoto Kyu's song 'Uewo Muite Arukou,' also known internationally as 'Sukiyaki,' is a poignant reflection on resilience and hope amidst sorrow. The title translates to 'I Look Up as I Walk,' and the lyrics convey a deep sense of melancholy and solitude. The protagonist walks with their head held high to prevent tears from falling, a metaphor for maintaining dignity and composure in the face of emotional pain. This act of looking up symbolizes an attempt to find solace and perhaps a brighter future, even when feeling utterly alone.

The song's verses take us through different seasons, each associated with memories of loneliness. Spring, summer, and autumn nights are all marked by solitary reflections, suggesting that the protagonist's sadness is a recurring theme throughout the year. The imagery of counting blurred stars and the shadows of the moon and stars as representations of sadness adds a poetic layer to the narrative. These celestial elements often symbolize hope and dreams, yet here they are tinged with sorrow, indicating that even the most beautiful aspects of life can be overshadowed by grief.

Despite the underlying sadness, there is an element of hope in the song. The repeated act of looking up and walking forward, even while crying, suggests a determination to keep moving despite the pain. The lyrics imply that happiness exists above the clouds and in the sky, hinting at the possibility of better days ahead. This duality of sorrow and hope resonates deeply, making 'Uewo Muite Arukou' a timeless anthem of perseverance and emotional strength.