I choose this clip cause there is an English translation for the lyrics though I have to say translation is not always accurate since there are a few self-interpretations added by the translator (probably in hope to set light on the ambiguity of the lyrics), which is understandable because Japanese is a language of ambiguity
My understanding is slightly different at a few points but i'm not blogging about this song to point out the difference in translation
I just want to note down how its meaning evolves in me since i first knew and fell in love with it
As many probably know that this is a theme song for one of the best hits of Ghibli studio's work called Spirited away (千と千尋の神隠し）
I first watched it when i was 18 or 19 i think; and i didnt get much of the many layers of meaning it carries until i had chance to explore it again in my film lecture in university. Though i did absolutely fall in love with the tale it narrates and the dream-like adventure Chihiro goes through in the movie. What was left in me then was simply a dreamy adventure and an unforgettable encounter, something similar to a supernatural experience and fateful encounter, which is my cup of tea when i was younger.
Only until my film lecture when we explore the works of GHibli studio did it dawn on me how the film was a representation of a soul searching meaning that one can relate throughout his/her lifetime, which is exactly the meaning of the song in my opinion.
Just like how Chihiro transforms from a listless, indifferent city girl to a more lively, active, decisive and brave girl when facing with the unexpected challenges and encounters life represents her; the song conveys its messages to those who engages in the search for the meaning of their existence through its ever-gentle melody.
Only with calmness, understanding and resilience comes our courage and resolution to wage against the adversity wave life may throw us at; and at the other end may we make peace with our sorrow and taste the sweetest treats of life...
Through the brokenness each and every farewell leaves us may we find a new beginning awaiting ahead, the courage to accept and to move forward as life unfolds its course
There might be plenty of things and happenings we cant explain and reason why such occurence but sometimes there is just no reason and explanation for a life course; only that every single living entities would share the same fate; and you are not at all an exception.
our soul, our inner peace should be cultivated from deep within our mind, our hearts, not something granted to us by somebody or through attaining something at all. but we may only grasp its meaning through our endless pondering, exploring and encounters in life.
That is how the song resonates in me at present, when i have lived for more than three decades.
The song is like a representation of philosophy of life and our attitudes towards it. It is like a meditation through which we find our calm oasis amidst the ever-changing and evolving storm of living; and it is very touching in that sense, or at least to me
So this blog is to profess my love for Ghibli's works; how it always touches me at any moment of life, beyond words
Speaking of which, i really want to see The boy and the Heron....
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