Usotsuki
ヨルシカ (Yorushika)
The Melancholic Longing in Yorushika's 'Usotsuki'
Yorushika's song 'Usotsuki' delves deep into themes of longing, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is caught in a cycle of waiting and reminiscing. The imagery of rain, scattered flowers, and a bucket full of moonlight sets a melancholic tone, suggesting a sense of beauty intertwined with sorrow. The protagonist's constant waiting for someone, possibly a lost love, is a central theme, and this waiting is depicted as both a physical and emotional state.
The song's narrative progresses through different seasons, symbolizing the passage of time and the changes it brings. The quietness of the town after summer, the return to an empty room, and the solitary observation of the night sky all contribute to a sense of isolation and introspection. The protagonist reflects on their past self, describing tears as jewels, which could symbolize the preciousness of their emotions and memories. However, there's also a sense of resignation as they admit to forgetting the voice and memories of the person they are waiting for.
As the song continues, the protagonist's desire for closure becomes evident. They express a longing for a goodbye, yet this farewell remains elusive. The repeated imagery of drinking moonlight and using a paintbrush to consume love suggests a futile attempt to fill an emotional void. The protagonist's yearning for the simple, comforting presence of the other person, even in the form of a hum or a glance, underscores the depth of their loneliness. The song concludes with a poignant realization that the person they are waiting for has become a part of the night, further emphasizing the theme of unattainable longing and the passage of time.