Ash Crow
Susumu Hirasawa
The Enigmatic Flight of the Ash Crow
Susumu Hirasawa's song 'Ash Crow' is a haunting and enigmatic piece that delves into themes of existentialism, transformation, and liberation. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, creating a tapestry of meaning that invites deep reflection. The recurring figure of the 'Ash Crow' serves as a central symbol, representing a being that navigates through darkness and uncertainty, seeking enlightenment and freedom.
The song opens with the lines 'Jū Ryū kyomu ni / Akuta o kurau,' which can be interpreted as a journey through emptiness and the consumption of impurities. This sets the stage for the Ash Crow's flight, a metaphor for rising above the mundane and the corrupt. The repeated exhortation 'Muku o tobe' (Fly, Ash Crow) emphasizes the call to transcendence and purity. The imagery of rain and darkness ('Kyomō no ame') further underscores the challenges and obstacles faced on this path.
As the song progresses, the Ash Crow is depicted as a seeker of wisdom ('Kimi ni satori / Ishi ni hikari'), with compassion ('Jihi') becoming a guiding force. The lines 'Jūrin no obie ni umare' suggest a birth from oppression and fear, highlighting the transformative journey of the Ash Crow. The crow's flight is not just a physical act but a spiritual ascent, aiming to fill the sky ('Sora wo mitasu') and break free from the chains of fear ('Obie no kase saki tobe'). The song's conclusion, with the crow likened to an arrow of freedom ('Jizai no ya nogotoku ni'), encapsulates the ultimate goal of liberation and self-realization.
Hirasawa's use of poetic language and symbolic imagery in 'Ash Crow' creates a profound narrative that resonates with themes of struggle, enlightenment, and the quest for freedom. The song's ethereal and haunting melody complements its lyrical depth, making it a compelling piece that invites listeners to explore its layers of meaning.