Gajumaru (Michiro Endo)

The song 'Gajumaru (Michiro Endo)' by The Stalin is a haunting and introspective piece that delves into themes of loneliness, longing, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a solitary night under a Gajumaru tree, also known as a banyan tree, where the protagonist is engulfed in a mix of melancholy and nostalgia. The recurring imagery of the red moon and the restless sea and wind sets a surreal and almost mystical tone, suggesting a world where natural elements are in turmoil, mirroring the inner emotional state of the protagonist.

The Gajumaru tree serves as a central symbol in the song, representing a place of waiting and reflection. The protagonist's feelings of being '少し悪いよい気分' (a bit of a bad drunken feeling) and the heightened awareness of even the smallest sounds, like a stray cat's footsteps, indicate a state of heightened sensitivity and emotional tension. This setting under the tree becomes a space where memories and current emotions intermingle, creating a poignant atmosphere of yearning and introspection.

The song also touches on the theme of unreturned journeys and the passage of time, as indicated by the lines '誰も帰ってこないよ' (no one is coming back) and '僕の記憶は枯れと戯れた' (my memories played with the withered). The red moon and the flowers of Deishi (出石の花) in the night sky symbolize beauty and transience, reinforcing the idea that even in moments of waiting and longing, there is a certain beauty to be found. The protagonist's desire to '飛んで行きたい' (want to fly away) reflects a deep yearning for escape or change, a common human experience when faced with prolonged solitude and reflection.

Overall, 'Gajumaru (Michiro Endo)' is a deeply emotional and evocative song that captures the essence of human longing and the bittersweet nature of memories. The Stalin's unique punk rock style, combined with poetic and symbolic lyrics, creates a powerful and immersive listening experience.