娘よ
芦屋雁之助 Lyrics

The lyrics to 芦屋雁之助's song "娘よ" (My Daughter) describe the emotions a father feels on his daughter's wedding day. The first stanza expresses the sentiment felt by many fathers: if only the day his daughter leaves home to get married would never come. However, the second stanza acknowledges the reality of the situation and the father's observation that time has flown by so quickly, that his once young daughter is now dressed as a bride. In this moment, the father struggles to find words to express his emotions but simply wishes for his daughter to stay healthy and happy. He reassures her, "if the bride cries, don't worry about me, you look beautiful."

The following stanza reflects on the previous night's events, where the daughter served sake to her father. Although he doesn't remember the taste, he recalls pointing out a photograph of himself and his daughter noting how alike they look. As he fondly touches her cheek, he feels a mix of emotions, tears of sadness, and joyful laughter. The last stanza is a father's advice to his daughter in her new journey, he tells her to never forget to smile and to be kind to her husband. Even though there may be some difficulties along the way, he believes in the person she chose to marry.

Overall, the song captures the bittersweet mix of emotions a father experiences on his daughter's wedding day. It reflects on the challenges of letting go and highlights the bond between a father and his daughter.