Okaasan
VOCALOID
The Haunting Lullaby of 'Okaasan'
The song 'Okaasan' by VOCALOID, a singing voice synthesizer software, presents a chilling narrative that seems to delve into themes of fear, the supernatural, and possibly the complex relationship between a child and their mother. The repetitive nature of the lyrics, with words like 'くる' (coming) and 'まわる' (turning), alongside the onomatopoeic 'ぎし' (creaking), creates an eerie atmosphere, suggesting a scene where something is continuously spinning or approaching, accompanied by the unsettling sound of creaking.
The repeated mention of 'おかあさん' (mother) as the only one whose neck is turning to look at the speaker adds a layer of horror. It could imply a supernatural occurrence or a child's nightmare where the mother's figure is distorted into something unrecognizable and frightening. The urgency in the lines 'がくるはやくにげないと' (she's coming, I must run away quickly) and 'もうおいつかれた' (already caught up) heightens the sense of dread, suggesting an inescapable pursuit.
Given the abstract and minimalistic nature of the lyrics, the song leaves much to interpretation. It could be a metaphor for the fear of losing a loved one, the anxiety of not living up to parental expectations, or even a commentary on the sometimes terrifying aspects of familial bonds. The use of VOCALOID technology adds an additional layer of detachment and artificiality, which can amplify the haunting quality of the song.