Pantalea

Akiko Shikata's song "Pantalea" is a mesmerizing blend of poetic imagery and mystical themes, inviting listeners into a world where time, memory, and nature intertwine. The song opens with a reference to a full moon, symbolizing a time of celebration and life. The lyrics ponder what prayers and songs are offered during this celestial event, hinting at a deep connection between the natural world and human rituals.

The song then delves into the past, mentioning ancient gatherings and storytellers who have long been silent. Despite this silence, there is a sense of anticipation, as if the world is waiting for something significant to happen. The invocation of birds, beasts, and spirits to recall fragments of memory suggests a longing to reconnect with a forgotten or lost history. This theme is further emphasized by the call to celebrate the miracle of the night, uniting all living beings in a shared experience.

"Pantalea" itself is depicted as a mystical flower that blooms under the blue star, symbolizing hope and the beauty of life. The flower's fragrance and the light it emits represent the mysterious and enchanting aspects of existence. The song speaks of dancing even in a world that has ended, filling it with joy and anticipation. The imagery of flames and a butterfly's dance in the night adds to the ethereal quality of the song, suggesting transformation and rebirth.

As the song progresses, it touches on themes of memory and legacy, with references to nameless shadows and wishes that sustain new miracles. The recurring motif of Pantalea blooming once a year symbolizes fleeting yet profound moments of hope and renewal. The song concludes with a vision of Pantalea under a shining wind, carrying eternal thoughts and dreams, embodying a prayer for the future. This final image encapsulates the song's essence: a celebration of life's mysteries, the passage of time, and the enduring power of hope and memory.