月の丘 (A Hill of the Moon)

The song 'A Hill of the Moon' by Ichiko Aoba is a poetic and evocative piece that seems to explore themes of memory, loss, and the ethereal nature of human connections. The lyrics, sung in Japanese, paint a picture of a moonlit hill that can be easily ascended by those who are called. This hill, under the moon's glow, serves as a metaphor for a place of transition or a spiritual journey that some are destined to undertake.

The mention of promises made suggests a bond between the narrator and 'that child,' which remains unfulfilled or paused. The imagery of a stormy night with winds that wet the cheeks with tears, possibly representing sorrow or a cleansing process, adds to the song's melancholic tone. The 'tearful rain' in 'that child's eyes' could symbolize the emotional pain or the release of emotions associated with the memories of the past.

As the song progresses, it speaks of a smile that fades away, likened to a shooting star that makes a vow before disappearing. This could imply the fleeting nature of moments and the impermanence of life itself. The smile becoming the round moon and hiding in the hill suggests a transformation or an ascension to a higher state, possibly in the afterlife or a metaphysical realm. Ichiko Aoba's music often features acoustic sounds and a serene atmosphere, which complements the song's introspective and dreamlike qualities.