Kutinashi No Hana

Tetsuya Watari's song 'Kutinashi No Hana' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and regret. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a past relationship that has left a lasting impact on the narrator. The song opens with the image of a once vibrant lover who has now become frail and worn out, symbolized by the gardenia flower, known as 'kutinashi' in Japanese. This flower, with its delicate white petals and strong fragrance, serves as a metaphor for the lover's enduring presence in the narrator's life, even as they are physically apart.

The second verse delves into the narrator's memories of their lover's youthful, carefree nature, which often caused trouble but was endearing nonetheless. The mention of a rainy farewell adds a layer of melancholy, suggesting that the separation was both inevitable and heart-wrenching. The gardenia flower reappears, its scent a constant reminder of the past, tightening the emotional grip on the narrator's heart. This recurring motif of the gardenia flower emphasizes the deep connection and the lingering pain of the lost relationship.

In the final verse, the narrator reflects on the small happiness they once had and how they let it slip away. The sight of the gardenia flower brings back memories of their lover's smile, now tinged with sadness. The repetition of the phrase 'Omaeno yoona hana datta' (You were like a flower) underscores the idealization of the lost lover and the enduring sorrow that accompanies their absence. Through its evocative imagery and heartfelt lyrics, 'Kutinashi No Hana' captures the essence of a love that continues to haunt the narrator, much like the persistent fragrance of the gardenia flower.