桜ラプソディ
斉藤和義 Lyrics

In the song "桜ラプソディ" by 斉藤和義, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world filled with fleeting cherry blossoms and a flowing rhapsody. The opening lines, "今日も世の中は三日見ぬ間の桜かな" (Today, once again, the world is like cherry blossoms seen for just three days), suggest the transitory nature of life and beauty, drawing a parallel between the ephemeral sakura petals and the passing moments of existence. The mention of a flowing rhapsody symbolizes the constant movement and rhythm of life, with its ups and downs, joys, and sorrows.

The following lines introduce the themes of hidden truths and self-deception, with phrases like "それは言わぬが花 知らぬが仏様 溺愛自己愛" (What is left unsaid is like a flower, ignorance is bliss, drowning in self-love). These words hint at the idea of people turning a blind eye to uncomfortable truths or indulging in self-absorption, leading to the blooming of "悪の華" (flowers of evil) and disharmony in their lives. The mention of a highway jammed with traffic yet with an available exit raises questions about choices and the way forward in the face of obstacles.

As the lyrics progress, the repetitive cycle of life is highlighted with phrases like "回り回って巡り巡って振り向けば" (Turning in circles, looking back again). This repetition echoes the feeling of being stuck in the same patterns and situations, urging introspection and the need to dig deeper within oneself to break free from the cycle. The imagery of digging and digging further only to realize one's own grave metaphorically portrays the consequences of one's actions and choices that lead to self-destruction.

The chorus of the song shifts towards a realization of the prevalence of deception and falsehood in the world, as expressed in lines like "ウソばっかの大本営" (The headquarters of lies). The reference to the tears of the cherry blossoms and the flowing rhapsody amidst the highway jam symbolize the emotional turmoil and dissonance in a world clouded by deception and ignorance. The final lines caution against following the dangerous path of conformity and ignorance, urging listeners to break away from the herd mentality and seek their own truths. Overall, the lyrics of "桜ラプソディ" offer a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life, the traps of self-deception, and the importance of seeking clarity and truth in a chaotic world.