The Songwriter's Funeral Song

XX: Sinking into the Shallowed Mind

The Songwriter’s Funeral Song
Sinking into the Shallowed Mind

Please allow me to work with you ‘til your last…

I’m certain that Mugi will see my last. Amidst the deaths of the people that were close to mine, she remains beside me, courageous. Our promise that we’ll do music together continues, although we currently lack percussion and electric guitar at that time.

“I have written a new song. Will you help me do the bass for me?”

I was desperate to end my career so soon. That is why, the other night, I stayed awake late. A thought smoothly ran through that time. I have the lyrics in mind and a melody to paint it with more emotion. I’ve gathered much inspiration. My last will be perhaps, everyone’s happiness.

“Of course, Kumori. I would be glad to,” with a smile, Mugi replied.

Obore Te Iru Sakana (Drowning Fish)

I'm soaked under the polluted sea
I've seen a lot under, but all seemed blurry
Able I am but hindered by humanity
Knotted are the ropes, tied around my body

This fish keeps on flapping fins
Even if it keeps trying, it will never win
Wishing there was a way to save it from drowning
Halt, float, meet the line that touches the brim

Teach me how to blink
Eyes are in strain, I want to rest from such scenes
Teach me how to breathe correctly
So that, I'll live a life in which living would be easy

Less must thy desire to have an offspring
"Why'd you give birth to me?" Questions kept children asking
The melodies of turmoil in my head keep on playing
The major, the minor, the rising, and the falling

Just like the waves, splashing strong in the face of the rock
But the rock was fixed, immovable, and had to endure all mock
All the strengths, to and fro, will make the edges sharp
Sharp that will soon kill the fish in just one struck

When will the waves rest in parallel to the horizon?
Where in the y, it will stand, and in the x it will be flatly laid on
Unable to be pushed, lifted, or thrown
But it can be moved when the winds are strong

Bubbles are fluffy, buoyant, and empty
Deliver the air to the fish, make it a bounty
Share the bliss, do not be greedy
For we are all fishes, escaping life’s difficulty

“You’re still writing this kind of song?” Mugi asked after she read the lyrics I’ve written.

“Yes, I’ve started it this way and will end it like this as well,” I replied. We were back in the apartment, and it looked more like a studio than before. Songwriting became a quite rush, but we managed to make it sound like we’ve done it for years.

“I guess, that’s what you’re made of.” She laughed a little. “If that’s the case, I’ll protect you more.”

We looked at each other, while Mugi was still holding her smile, and I, having no reaction at all. She threw her gaze away after seeing my unconcerned aura.

“I promised Riri about it. We even had a competition about taking care of you," she added.

I looked at the ceiling and pondered what Mugi have said.

“Thank you,” I uttered, making her sight laid back to mine, “I’ve been inconsiderate of other’s feelings. The songs that made me reach the top harm the people I love… the people who love me, and even I, myself. But… why did they love me this way? For being cold? For being careless?”