はじまりとおわりのうた (hajimari to owari no uta) (The Song of the Beginning and the End)

Kikuo's 'はじまりとおわりのうた (The Song of the Beginning and the End)' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the cyclical nature of life and existence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of dissolution and unity, where the physical body dissolves into a warm, glowing vortex, merging with the universe. This imagery suggests a transcendence from the physical realm to a more ethereal, dream-like state, where everything and everyone is interconnected.

The recurring theme of bodies dissolving into particles and merging with everything around them—be it the sky, sea, mountains, cities, or people—emphasizes the idea of unity and interconnectedness. This dissolution into particles can be seen as a metaphor for the impermanence of life and the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The song suggests that even in dissolution, there is a form of continuity and connection, as everything becomes part of a larger whole.

Accompanied by transparent consciousness, the journey to the dream world signifies a shift from the tangible to the intangible, from the known to the unknown. This transition is portrayed not as an end but as a new beginning, a journey into a different realm of existence. Kikuo's musical style, often characterized by its ethereal and otherworldly soundscapes, perfectly complements the lyrical content, creating an immersive experience that invites listeners to reflect on the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all things.