NICO Touches the Walls - Diver | Lyrics Meaning and Translation | Sentence for Sentence
"Diver" by NICO Touches the Walls is an intense and introspective song that served as the eighth opening theme for the anime series Naruto Shippuden. The song's dynamic melody and profound lyrics capture themes of struggle, self-discovery, and resilience. NICO Touches the Walls, a Japanese rock band, brings their powerful sound and deep lyrical content to this track, making it a memorable anthem for fans.
In this article, we will explore the lyrics of "Diver" sentence by sentence, providing the original Japanese text, Romaji, and English translation. We will also delve into the deeper meaning behind each line, revealing how the song's themes resonate with the journey of the characters in Naruto Shippuden.
Background of the Song
Release Details
"Diver" by NICO Touches the Walls was released in 2011 and served as the eighth opening theme for Naruto Shippuden. The song played from episodes 180 to 205, accompanying significant moments in the series and adding a sense of urgency and reflection. Its introspective message and powerful melody made it an instant hit among fans.
Inspiration and Creation
NICO Touches the Walls is known for their energetic performances and thought-provoking lyrics. "Diver" reflects themes of inner struggle, the quest for identity, and the resilience to push through challenges, mirroring the experiences and growth of Naruto and his friends. The band's ability to combine dynamic rock music with profound emotional depth has made this song a favorite among listeners.
Sentence-by-Sentence Lyrics Breakdown
Verse 1
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
あの水平線が遠ざかっていく
Romaji:
Ano suiheisen ga toozakatte iku
English Translation:
The horizon is receding
Meaning and Interpretation: This line sets a scene of moving away from a familiar place, symbolizing change and the unknown.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
青すぎた空には明日すら描けなくて
Romaji:
Aosugita sora ni wa asu sura egakenakute
English Translation:
In the overly blue sky, I can't even imagine tomorrow
Meaning and Interpretation: Describes a sense of being overwhelmed and unable to foresee the future.
Sentence 3:
Original Japanese:
息もできないくらい澱んだ人の群れ
Romaji:
Iki mo dekinai kurai yodonda hito no mure
English Translation:
A stagnant crowd so thick I can barely breathe
Meaning and Interpretation: Conveys the suffocating feeling of being surrounded by a stagnant or oppressive environment.
Sentence 4:
Original Japanese:
僕はいつからここに潜り込んだんだ?
Romaji:
Boku wa itsu kara koko ni mogurikonda nda?
English Translation:
When did I dive into here?
Meaning and Interpretation: Reflects on how one ended up in a difficult or overwhelming situation.
Chorus
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
悲しみなんて吐きだして 前だけ見てればいいんだっけ
Romaji:
Kanashimi nante hakidashite mae dake miteraba iinda kke
English Translation:
Should I just spit out the sadness and only look forward?
Meaning and Interpretation: Questions whether ignoring pain and focusing solely on the future is the right approach.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
それじゃとてもまともでいられない
Romaji:
Sore ja totemo matomo de irarenai
English Translation:
That way, I can't stay sane
Meaning and Interpretation: Acknowledges that suppressing emotions is not sustainable.
Sentence 3:
Original Japanese:
すべてを僕が敵にまわしても 光をかすかに感じてるんだ
Romaji:
Subete wo boku ga teki ni mawashitemo hikari wo kasuka ni kanjiterunda
English Translation:
Even if I turn everything against me, I can faintly feel the light
Meaning and Interpretation: Expresses resilience and the ability to find hope even in adversity.
Sentence 4:
Original Japanese:
そこまで行けそうなら
Romaji:
Soko made ikesou nara
English Translation:
If I can get that far
Meaning and Interpretation: Shows determination to reach a better place despite difficulties.
Verse 2
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
息をしたくて ここは苦しくて
Romaji:
Iki wo shitakute koko wa kurushikute
English Translation:
I want to breathe, it's painful here
Meaning and Interpretation: Describes the struggle and desire for relief in a suffocating situation.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
闇を見上げるだけの夜は もがく減圧症のダイバー
Romaji:
Yami wo miageru dake no yoru wa mogaku gen'atsu-shou no daibaa
English Translation:
Nights where I only look up at the darkness, a diver struggling with decompression sickness
Meaning and Interpretation: Uses the metaphor of a diver to illustrate the pain and disorientation of struggling in darkness.
Sentence 3:
Original Japanese:
生きているんだって 確かめたくて
Romaji:
Ikiteirunda tte tashikametakute
English Translation:
I want to confirm that I'm alive
Meaning and Interpretation: Describes the desire to feel and affirm one's existence.
Sentence 4:
Original Japanese:
深い海底を目指してもう一度 呼吸をしよう
Romaji:
Fukai kaitei wo mezashite mou ichido kokyuu wo shiyou
English Translation:
Aiming for the deep sea floor, let's breathe once more
Meaning and Interpretation: Symbolizes diving deep into challenges to find a fresh start or new perspective.
Bridge
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
頭の中の地図をひっくり返したら
Romaji:
Atama no naka no chizu wo hikkurikaeshitara
English Translation:
If I flip the map in my head
Meaning and Interpretation: Suggests changing perspectives or rethinking strategies.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
足りないものだらけで 独り怯えた昨夜
Romaji:
Tarinai mono darake de hitori obieta sakuya
English Translation:
Full of insufficiencies, alone and scared last night
Meaning and Interpretation: Reflects on feelings of inadequacy and fear.
Sentence 3:
Original Japanese:
僕は強いんだってずっと思ってた
Romaji:
Boku wa tsuyoin da tte zutto omotteta
English Translation:
I always thought I was strong
Meaning and Interpretation: Reveals a previous belief in personal strength.
Sentence 4:
Original Japanese:
誰よりも強いってずっと思ってた
Romaji:
Dare yori mo tsuyoi tte zutto omotteta
English Translation:
I always thought I was stronger than anyone
Meaning and Interpretation: Highlights a sense of overconfidence or self-assurance.
Verse 3
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
迷子になった白鳥が 星の夜空に浮かんでいた
Romaji:
Maigo ni natta hakuchou ga hoshi no yozora ni ukande ita
English Translation:
A lost swan was floating in the starry night sky
Meaning and Interpretation: Creates a vivid image of a lost soul in a vast, beautiful space.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
慰めのように降り出した雨
Romaji:
Nagusame no you ni oridashita ame
English Translation:
Rain began to fall like comfort
Meaning and Interpretation: Uses rain as a metaphor for solace or cleansing.
Sentence 3:
Original Japanese:
だけどどうやら僕らはなれそうもない 星が星なら僕は僕さ
Romaji:
Dakedo douyara bokura wa naresou mo nai hoshi ga hoshi nara boku wa boku sa
English Translation:
But it seems we can't become like that, stars are stars, and I am me
Meaning and Interpretation: Acknowledges individuality and the difficulty of changing one's nature.
Sentence 4:
Original Japanese:
どこまで行けそうかな
Romaji:
Doko made ikesou kana
English Translation:
How far can I go?
Meaning and Interpretation: Questions the extent of one's abilities and potential.
Chorus Repeat
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
重たい錨を背負い込んで ほんの少し祈りを吐きだして
Romaji:
Omotai ikari wo seoikonde hon no sukoshi inori wo hakidashite
English Translation:
Carrying a heavy
anchor, I let out a small prayer
Meaning and Interpretation: Describes the burden of responsibility and the act of seeking hope.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
まるで合図のように降り出した雨
Romaji:
Marude aizu no you ni oridashita ame
English Translation:
The rain began to fall like a signal
Meaning and Interpretation: Uses rain as a metaphor for a turning point or a sign.
Outro
Sentence 1:
Original Japanese:
息をしたくて ここは苦しくて
Romaji:
Iki wo shitakute koko wa kurushikute
English Translation:
I want to breathe, it's painful here
Meaning and Interpretation: Reiterates the struggle and desire for relief in a suffocating situation.
Sentence 2:
Original Japanese:
闇を見上げるだけの僕じゃ 浮かぶ方法もないダイバー
Romaji:
Yami wo miageru dake no boku ja ukabu houhou mo nai daibaa
English Translation:
A diver who only looks up at the darkness, with no way to float
Meaning and Interpretation: Describes the feeling of being stuck or unable to rise above challenges.
Sentence 3:
Original Japanese:
生きているんだって 確かめたいならそう
Romaji:
Ikiteirunda tte tashikametai nara sou
English Translation:
If you want to confirm that you're alive
Meaning and Interpretation: Affirms the need to feel and affirm one's existence.
Sentence 4:
Original Japanese:
深い海底を目指してもう一度だけ 息をしてみて
Romaji:
Fukai kaitei wo mezashite mou ichido dake iki wo shite mite
English Translation:
Aiming for the deep sea floor, try breathing once more
Meaning and Interpretation: Encourages diving deep into challenges to find a fresh start or new perspective.
Sentence 5:
Original Japanese:
ただの幸せに気づいたら もう二度と溺れないよ
Romaji:
Tada no shiawase ni kizuitara mou nidoto oborenai yo
English Translation:
Once you realize simple happiness, you'll never drown again
Meaning and Interpretation: Suggests that finding contentment in simple things can prevent future struggles.
Themes and Messages
Major Themes in the Song
- Inner Struggle and Resilience: The lyrics emphasize the internal battles and the strength needed to overcome them.
- Self-Discovery: Highlights the journey of understanding oneself and acknowledging personal limits.
- Perseverance and Hope: Reflects on the importance of continuing to push forward despite challenges and finding light in the darkness.
Resonance with Listeners
The themes of "Diver" resonate deeply with listeners, especially fans of Naruto Shippuden, as they reflect the core values of the series. The song's intense message and powerful melody inspire a sense of determination and self-reflection, much like Naruto himself.
Translation Accuracy and Interpretation
Challenges of Translating Japanese to English
Translating Japanese lyrics to English involves navigating nuances and cultural differences. Certain phrases and emotions may not have direct equivalents in English, requiring interpretive translation to maintain the song's original intent and impact.
Comparison with Other Translations
- Official vs. Fan Translations: Official translations often aim for accuracy and readability, while fan translations may capture more of the song's emotional and cultural context.
- Interpretation Variations: Different translations can offer various perspectives on the song's meaning, enriching the understanding of its themes.
Connection to Naruto Shippuden
Fit Within the Anime
"Diver" is a perfect fit for Naruto Shippuden, capturing the essence of Naruto's journey, filled with dreams, determination, and the struggles of a young ninja. The song's dynamic rock style matches the intense and hopeful nature of the anime.
Fan Reactions
Fans of Naruto Shippuden have embraced "Diver" as an iconic opening theme, praising its profound lyrics and memorable melody. The song is often associated with the pivotal moments in the series, making it a beloved anthem among fans.
Conclusion
In summary, "Diver" by NICO Touches the Walls is a powerful and introspective opening theme that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Naruto Shippuden. Its meaningful lyrics, dynamic melody, and connection to the series' core themes of inner struggle, self-discovery, and resilience make it an enduring favorite. By examining the song's lyrics sentence by sentence, we gain a deeper appreciation for its impact and the way it mirrors Naruto's journey. We invite you to share your thoughts and interpretations of "Diver" in the comments, and reflect on how this iconic song has inspired you.
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