March is the month of graduation in Japan. It is the beginning of a school year and also the season of a farewell. One always feels the mixture of joy and sorrow in March.
The song I translated today “Haru Nanoni(Though it is spring time)” is about such a melancholic feeling a school girl has towards her beloved classmate at her graduation day. This song is written by Miyuki Nakajima, another female genius in Japanese pop music. This Chanson-like tune accompanied by accordion is successful in expressing an oppressed feeling of a shy young Japanese girl (typical at latest until 70’s…).
Haru Nanoni
“Though it’s spring time”
Is the graduation the only reason?
Reaching out your right hand
You say you will miss me
I guess your friend is calling you there
I wish I could smile at these passing seasons
Why do we have to say goodbye in spring time?
Tears are falling from my eyes though in spring time
Why is it, why is it…
That I breathe another sigh in spring time?
“Can we meet at the white cafe after the graduation
As we have done before?”
I was about to tell you
When you said,
“What is it you wanted to say?”
Please give me your button as a memoir
I will throw it away into the blue sky
Why do we have to say goodbye in spring time?
Tears are falling from my eyes though in spring time
Why is it, why is it…
That I breathe another sigh in spring time?
