The Clear Demonic Mirror

The song 'The Clear Demonic Mirror' by VOCALOID delves into a haunting and surreal narrative, blending traditional Japanese folklore with dark, modern themes. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a demonic figure, often referred to as '鬼' (oni), a traditional Japanese demon, who engages in various macabre activities. The imagery of deceit, violence, and twisted joy is prevalent throughout the song, creating a chilling atmosphere.

The song opens with an invitation to a '鬼童' (demon child), setting the tone for a tale of deception and malevolence. The protagonist, described as a '般若の小娘' (Hannya girl), a reference to a type of female demon mask in Noh theater, deceives others with a smiling face while committing gruesome acts. The lyrics describe her dancing joyfully after hunting animals, suggesting a perverse sense of pleasure derived from violence. This duality of appearance and reality is a central theme, highlighting the contrast between the protagonist's outward innocence and inner darkness.

As the song progresses, the narrative becomes even more disturbing. The protagonist's actions escalate from animal cruelty to consuming human flesh, symbolizing a descent into deeper depravity. The repeated chant of 'た た た' and the invocation of '鬼 鬼 鬼 姫' (demon princess) create a rhythmic, almost ritualistic feel, emphasizing the cyclical nature of violence and suffering. The references to '極楽浄土' (paradise) for the '哀れな家畜' (pitiful livestock) add a layer of irony, as the promise of paradise contrasts sharply with the hellish reality depicted.

The song also incorporates elements of traditional Japanese children's games, such as 'かごめかごめ' (Kagome Kagome), a game with eerie connotations about being trapped and seeking escape. This reference, combined with the imagery of a '狐の祭壇' (fox altar) and '化け猫の祈り' (monster cat's prayer), ties the narrative to Japanese folklore, where foxes and cats often have supernatural associations. The song's conclusion, with the protagonist closing her consciousness in darkness, suggests an endless cycle of torment and the inescapable nature of her demonic existence.