海を見ていた午後
Clémentine Lyrics

These lyrics depict a nostalgic and bittersweet sentiment of reminiscing about a past love while sitting alone in a restaurant overlooking the sea. The singer reflects on the memories that resurface every time they visit this particular establishment, which requires climbing a hill to reach. Despite coming alone this time, the atmosphere of the Dolphin, a quiet seaside restaurant in Yamate, captures the calmness of the clear afternoon, allowing a distant view of the Miura Cape and cargo ships passing through the soda-filled waters. This setting evokes a sense of tranquility, with even the tiny bubbles disappearing like the fleeting nature of a past love.

The lyrics express a desire to have been able to cry openly at that time when the person in question was right in front of them. If only they had been able to release all their emotions back then, the singer believes that the two of them would now be here together, looking out at the sea. As the singer leans their cheek against the window and watches seagulls chase each other, they are overwhelmed by the sensation that the person they long for is still present, revealing a longing that continues to persist. The ink on the paper napkin is smudged, evidence of desperately writing a message to not forget, emphasizing the importance of preserving these distant memories.

The lyrics convey a sense of yearning for a bygone era, a longing for a love that was left unfinished or unrequited. This makes the distant days feel both precious and far away. The serene ambiance of the restaurant and the picturesque view of the sea serve as a backdrop for the singer's emotions, highlighting the significance of this place in their memories. The lyrics capture the nostalgia and wistfulness associated with past love, hinting at the lingering presence and unfulfilled longing that still remain.