Question from a reader:
I’m curious about Inoue Yosui’s song “Kasa ga Nai.” The song begins with the line, “In the city, the number of young people committing suicide is increasing.” Was there really a high rate of suicide at that time? If there had been more suicides in rural areas, would the lyrics have changed to reflect “In the countryside,
the number of young people committing suicide is increasing”? What are your thoughts on that?
Inoue Yosui’s “Kasa ga Nai” and the Influence of the Times
The exploration of Inoue Yosui’s “Kasa ga Nai” raises an interesting question. The song was released in 1972, a period marked by rapid social change in Japan following its economic growth. Particularly after the Anpo protests, feelings of loneliness and disappointment spread among the youth. Against this backdrop, Yosui sang about the struggles of young people in urban settings.
The Difference Between City and Countryside
It is indeed intriguing to consider how the lyrics might have changed had they stated that “In the countryside, the number of young people committing suicide is increasing.” Due to the strong community ties typical of rural areas, feelings of loneliness might be more palpable there. However, Yosui chose to focus on the city. The image of someone feeling isolated amidst the urban hustle resonates with a larger audience. His songs vividly depict the experience of young people who move to the city, losing their sense of belonging and seeking emotional refuge.
The Role of Music Amidst Changing Times
“Kasa ga Nai” transcends mere social critique; it embodies the changes of its era. While folk songs convey societal struggles, Yosui delves into more personal emotions. The sense of “having no dreams or hopes” among young people is prominently reflected in his music. Listening to contemporary music, I sometimes feel similar feelings of loneliness and disappointment. Especially in today’s world, where interactions on social media and comparisons with others are commonplace, music serves as a voice for those emotions. Understanding the background in which Yosui’s songs were created deepens the resonance of their message.
“Kasa ga Nai” as a Prediction for the Future
There is a viewpoint that “Kasa ga Nai” can be seen as a song predicting the future, which is certainly compelling. As time progresses, how much hope remains within us? I often feel the need for moments to reflect on myself amidst the busyness of daily life. Listening to Yosui’s music helps me recall those moments. What about you all? Do you find yourself reflecting through music or literature? I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Music, I believe, resonates with our hearts across generations. If you have a song that holds special memories or lyrics that linger in your mind, please feel free to share.
