手紙
Teresa Teng Lyrics

The song 手紙 (Tegami) by Teresa Teng depicts a woman who is writing a letter to her significant other, who she has left behind to go on a journey by train. She speaks of how she won't be returning and how the rain makes her feel numb, but how she hopes that the weather clears up. She thanks her partner for the brief moment of happiness and acknowledges that further communication with them will lead to more sadness. She is waiting for her partner to come back to her, but knows that she cannot greet them anymore.

The song is a representation of the loss and loneliness after a break-up or a change to an intimate relationship. It is about leaving behind the past and facing the unknown without hoping to return. The opening of the song, "By the time you read this letter, I will be on the night train," signifies the physical distancing of the woman from her partner, showing how the two cannot be together anymore. The imagery of the rain portrays her numbness and sadness at the separation. The recurring phrase, "Even if it's just a short moment, thank you for the happiness," shows the woman's appreciation for the relationship they had and how she knows that the relationship cannot be rekindled.