First Love

The overall theme of the song revolves around first love and the lasting impact it has on us. It’s about remembering that special someone, even when time passes and new relationships begin. There’s a mix of sadness and fondness in the lyrics, showing how love can change but never truly fade away. The singer expresses hope that the memories will always hold a place in her heart, which gives the song a heartfelt and relatable vibe.

Verse 1

最後のキスはタバコの flavor がした
ニガくてせつない香り 明日の今頃には
あなたはどこにいるんだろう
誰を思ってるんだろう

In this verse, the singer reminisces about a last kiss that carries a bittersweet taste. The mention of the tobacco flavor suggests something both familiar and painful, hinting at how memories can be sweet yet hurtful. She wonders where her former lover will be tomorrow and who they might be thinking about, highlighting the uncertainty and distance that often follow a breakup. This sets a reflective mood, showing how past experiences linger in our minds.

Chorus

You are always gonna be my love
いつか誰かとまた恋に落ちても
I'll remember to love
You taught me how You are always gonna be the one
今はまだ悲しい love song
新しい歌 歌えるまで

The chorus brings a strong emotional punch. The repetition of "You are always gonna be my love" emphasizes the permanence of this feeling, even if she moves on. It reassures that no matter what happens in the future, the lessons learned from this love will stay with her. The line about a "sad love song" suggests that she’s still processing her feelings, creating a mix of hope and sorrow, as she still hasn’t fully moved on but looks forward to singing new songs of love one day.

Verse 2

立ち止まる時間が
動き出そうとしてる
忘れたくないことばかり 明日の今頃には
私はきっと泣いている
あなたを思ってるんだろう yeah-yeah-yeah

In this verse, the idea of time standing still reflects her struggle to let go. As she feels stuck in her memories, she also senses that time is trying to move forward. There’s a strong desire to hold on to the good moments, which contrasts with the pain of knowing she will likely cry tomorrow thinking of her lost love. This duality of wanting to remember while also needing to heal adds depth to her emotional state.

Chorus

You will always be inside my heart
いつもあなただけの場所があるから
I hope that I have a place in your heart too Now and forever you are still the one
今はまだ悲しい love song
新しい歌 歌えるまで oh, oh-oh

Once again, the chorus reinforces that this love will always have a special place in her heart. The hope for a reciprocal feeling adds a layer of longing and vulnerability. It’s a reminder that while she holds onto these memories, she also wishes to remain significant in the other person's life. The repetition of the "sad love song" theme continues, emphasizing her ongoing emotional journey.

Bridge

You are always gonna be my love
いつか誰かとまた恋に落ちても
I'll remember to love
You taught me how You are always gonna be the one
まだ悲しい love song, yeah-yeah
Now and forever

The bridge beautifully ties back to the main theme, reinforcing the idea of eternal love. The singer acknowledges that while new relationships might come, the impact of this first love is irreplaceable. The emotional weight of this realization is palpable, as she still grapples with her sadness but also cherishes what she learned about love. It captures the essence of reminiscing while trying to move forward.

Closing Thoughts

"First Love" is a heartfelt exploration of the bittersweet nature of first love. Hikaru Utada masterfully blends nostalgia with the pain of moving on, creating a song that many can relate to. It’s a reminder that while love can change, the memories and lessons it brings stay with us forever. The mix of sadness and hope makes it a beautiful and timeless piece.