Kage Ni Natte

Yumi Matsutoya's song "Kage Ni Natte" ("Becoming a Shadow") is a poetic exploration of solitude, nostalgia, and the quest for freedom. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a foggy night, filled with mysterious light and shadows cast by street trees. This setting serves as a metaphor for the singer's emotional state, where the fog represents confusion and the shadows symbolize the unknown paths ahead.

The song delves into the theme of loneliness, as the singer describes the pain of trying to reach out to someone, only to be met with the repetitive sound of a ringing phone. This sense of isolation is further emphasized by the imagery of rummaging through a wardrobe and choosing a worn-out shirt, suggesting a desire to find comfort in familiar, albeit tired, things. The act of stepping outside and walking with a slightly hunched back, as if dancing, signifies a small yet significant attempt to break free from the confines of loneliness.

As the final train passes by, leaving behind a nostalgic echo, the singer clutches a paper cup of thin coffee from a donut shop, a symbol of the simple, unpretentious moments that offer solace. The midnight hour, devoid of pretense, is described as gentle, highlighting the quiet beauty found in solitude. The recurring lines about a wish from the past that sets the heart free suggest a longing for liberation from sadness, achieved through light-hearted, straightforward actions. This wish, encountered long ago, serves as a reminder that even in the depths of loneliness, there is a path to freedom and peace.

"Kage Ni Natte" is a poignant reflection on the interplay between loneliness and the search for freedom, set against the backdrop of a mystical, foggy night. It captures the delicate balance between melancholy and hope, offering a comforting reminder that even in the darkest times, there is a gentle light guiding the way.