Gokumon

Kiryu's 'Gokumon' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of sorrow, fate, and the cyclical nature of life and death. The lyrics are rich with traditional Japanese imagery and metaphors, creating a vivid tapestry that evokes a sense of timelessness and melancholy. The repeated references to 'onamida' (tears) and 'saikoro' (dice) suggest a life governed by chance and the inevitability of suffering, while the imagery of 'sakuran' (cherry blossoms) in the 'yayoi no sora' (March sky) symbolizes the fleeting nature of beauty and life itself.

The song's structure, with its repetitive and almost ritualistic chanting, mirrors the cyclical themes within the lyrics. The use of traditional Japanese elements, such as 'noumen' (Noh masks) and 'biran no shinjuu' (double suicide), further grounds the song in a cultural context that emphasizes the interplay between fate and human emotion. The lyrics' references to 'gankubi' (neck) and 'kagefumi' (shadow stepping) evoke a sense of entrapment and the inescapable nature of one's destiny.

Kiryu, known for their unique blend of traditional Japanese music and modern rock, uses 'Gokumon' to explore deep emotional and philosophical themes. The song's dark and somber tone, combined with its intricate lyrical content, invites listeners to reflect on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. The final line, 'Oni wa soto' (demons out), traditionally used in Japanese Setsubun rituals to ward off evil spirits, suggests a desire for purification and release from the cycle of suffering.