Sobakasu

The song 'Sobakasu' by the Japanese rock band Judy and Mary, which became widely known as the opening theme for the anime 'Rurouni Kenshin', delves into themes of self-acceptance, love, and nostalgia. The title 'Sobakasu' translates to 'freckles' in English, which is a metaphor for the imperfections that one may dislike about themselves. The lyrics begin with the protagonist touching their freckles and sighing, indicating a moment of self-reflection and perhaps dissatisfaction with their own perceived flaws.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that it's not just about freckles, but also about the bittersweet nature of love and memories. The lyrics mention a 'grade one' love that dissolved like sugar, suggesting a naive and perhaps fleeting romantic experience. The pain of love is likened to a thorn that pricks the protagonist's now thinner chest, symbolizing the lingering hurt from a past relationship. Despite the pain, there's a sense of longing for the ability to move forward together with the loved one, and the simple happiness that would bring.

The song also touches on the idea that memories are always beautiful, but they alone cannot sustain us—much like how beauty alone isn't enough to satisfy hunger. There's a poignant contrast between the beauty of memories and the actual pain of lonely nights. The protagonist struggles to remember the smile or tears of their loved one, suggesting a distance or a loss that has occurred. The mention of counting freckles while holding a dirty stuffed animal conveys a sense of clinging to the past and the comfort it provides, despite the pain that may still linger, like the thorn that doesn't disappear.