Meaning of いまはむかし (Ima wa Mukashi) by わーすた (Wasuta)

The Bittersweet Reflections of Ima wa Mukashi

Wasuta’s emotional ballad, Ima wa Mukashi, tells the poignant story of a grandfather’s journey, tracing his path from a content and active life to a state of illness and eventually, his departure from the world. Through the song, we are given a glimpse into the deep bond between the grandfather and his grandchild, as well as the universal themes of aging, mortality, and the importance of cherishing memories.

A Life Full of Purpose

The song begins by portraying the grandfather as a vibrant individual who enjoys the simple things in life, like eating zaru soba (cold noodles). He believes that as long as he loves something genuinely, he can appreciate it every day without growing weary. This reflects his content and peaceful demeanor, a quality that rubs off on his grandchild. His love for zaru soba becomes a symbol of his zest for life, emphasizing the importance of embracing each moment.

As the grandfather shares his daily routine with the grandchild, we learn about his dedication to radio exercises, exercising to stay in shape, and looking forward to the day when he can see his great-grandchild’s face. This display of vitality serves as a testament to the human desire to remain youthful and energetic, despite the natural effects of aging.

A Turning Point: Illness and the Pursuit of Meaning

As time passes, the grandfather’s health begins to deteriorate, and he starts taking a significant amount of medication. The grandchild becomes confused about this sudden change, unsure of how to respond to the grandparent’s altered state. The lyrics skillfully capture the emotions of uncertainty and disorientation, allowing the listener to resonate with the child’s experiences.

Teaching Valuable Lessons

Despite his struggles with health, the grandfather remains positive and focused on teaching the grandchild valuable life lessons. He emphasizes the importance of expressing emotions, understanding that it is crucial for people to connect on a deeper level. This sentiment resonates with the theme of Ima wa Mukashi, reminding us that genuine communication and emotional expression are essential for forming lasting bonds.

Goodbyes and Gratitude

As the grandfather’s condition worsens, the grandchild’s appreciation for the time spent together grows. They reflect on the memories created and the lessons learned, realizing that every moment, no matter how big or small, holds value. The grandfather’s final words to the grandchild, about the importance of emotional expression, become a poignant reminder of the transience of life and the beauty of cherishing memories.

The grandfather’s passing is portrayed symbolically, with white wings sprouting from his back as he quietly ascends to the sky. Despite his silence, his smile lingers, wiping away the grandchild’s tears as they grieve the loss of their beloved family member. This tender scene encapsulates the poignancy of goodbyes, reminding us of the preciousness of every moment shared with loved ones.

Reflection and Resolve

The song concludes with the grandchild’s thoughts on missed opportunities and shortcomings, emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude and apologies in a timely manner. As they reflect on their grandfather’s love for zaru soba, they begin to appreciate the transient nature of life and the beauty of simple joys.

The final lyrics convey a sense of closure, as the grandchild comes to terms with the passing of their grandfather and continues to share their emotions with him, even after his departure. This message of gratitude and remembrance offers a profound message for listeners of all ages, emphasizing the significance of cherishing memories, valuing time with loved ones, and expressing emotions freely.

In my experience with Ima wa Mukashi, the song’s narrative resonated deeply with me. I was moved by the tender portrayal of the grandfather-grandchild bond, and the thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. As I reflect on my own relationships and memories, I am reminded of the importance of being present, listening, and expressing myself freely. Wasuta’s powerful ballad serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate every moment and to never take loved ones for granted.

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