Candy

Yu Takahashi's song 'Candy' delves into the poignant experiences of a young boy facing bullying and the emotional scars it leaves behind. The song begins with a seemingly innocent scene during an art class, where the boy's paint is compared to candy. This moment quickly turns sour as a girl mocks him, urging him to taste the paintbrush. The boy, understanding that compliance might spare him further pain, reluctantly goes along with the taunt. This incident marks the beginning of his realization about the harshness of the world and the need to build resilience.

The narrative continues with another painful memory, this time set on a rainy evening. The boy cherishes a special umbrella gifted by his mother, adorned with his favorite character. However, this cherished possession is destroyed by bullies who laugh at him, saying the damaged umbrella suits him better. To avoid further humiliation, the boy forces himself to laugh along. This act of self-preservation highlights his internal struggle to maintain dignity and avoid becoming consumed by hatred.

Throughout the song, Takahashi reflects on the boy's vow to live resiliently and not succumb to bitterness. He questions the true nature of love and friendship, pondering their forms and flavors. The recurring metaphor of candy symbolizes the bittersweet memories of his childhood, a mix of fleeting sweetness and enduring pain. The song serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of bullying and the strength required to rise above it, choosing resilience over retaliation. Takahashi's poignant lyrics and emotive storytelling resonate deeply, offering a message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.