Soumatou (走馬灯)

Vaundy's song 'Soumatou' (走馬灯) delves into the complexities of life, memory, and the passage of time. The title itself, 'Soumatou,' refers to a revolving lantern, a metaphor often used in Japanese culture to symbolize the fleeting nature of life and the rapid succession of memories. The lyrics capture a sense of disorientation and existential reflection, as the narrator finds themselves in an unfamiliar place, both physically and emotionally. The imagery of a never-ending stream of scenery passing by a train window suggests a journey where the destination is unclear, mirroring the unpredictability of life.

The song explores themes of forgetfulness and the loss of important things along the way. The narrator admits to forgetting their original intentions and missing out on significant moments, yet they emphasize that this is not anyone's fault. This acknowledgment of shared human vulnerability is poignant, as it underscores the inevitability of change and the transformation of once 'ordinary' futures into something entirely different. The repeated refrain, 'It's not your fault, it's not my fault,' serves as a comforting reminder that life's twists and turns are beyond our control.

In the latter part of the song, Vaundy touches on the pain and beauty of human connections. The lyrics describe the narrator's fluctuating emotions as they navigate relationships, experiencing both closeness and separation. The imagery of 'exposing love and feeling pain again' highlights the bittersweet nature of love and the heart's resilience. Ultimately, the song encourages listeners to remember and cherish their experiences before they fade away, urging a reconciliation with the past and an acceptance of life's impermanence.