Original subtitles

I'm Etsuko Shiomi.

I'm finally an office lady.

Some people look at me now

and need to make jokes.

More ón that later.

Mr. Toyama's invite has brought me back on stage

I'm quite-nervous.

Northern Poets is a fantastic name.

It' came about from-our use oflthe North Hall.

It's beautiful.

I'd like to share my-own heartfelt words in poem

But my absence has given me writer's block.

So I'll share an older poem of mine entitled, "Question.'

This highly praised poem garnered me various invites during high school.

The poem-uplifted_me,

but also startedto bring me-sorrow..

I_don't-intend to drag you down

ShallI begin?

Question.

If everyone in the world would answer one question,

what would you ask?

What do you do when love sours?

What do you do when you are longing for death?

How do you make unreasonable choices?

Why are you alive?

Why shouldn't you murder?

What is justice?

What color is love?

What is real kindness?

Where do you come and go?

What's your first memory?

Can you tell me the miracles you've seen?

Can you tell me what you're worth?

Am I cool?

Do you like me?

What do you think of me?

Can you love me more?

This is like a question, but it's not.

No requests.

Therefore,

are you not in fact me?

Am I not you?

No, I am not.

Well who are you?

I am you to you.

Why so definitive?

Our bodies are obviously split.

Why not hold my hand?

We will separate.

Why not have sex?

That's the same.

Can we connect not physically?

I withhold.

Why did you withhold?

I'm more than my body.

In what way?

I can't say.

Don't you know?

Not precisely.

There are things you don't know?

Of course.

There is much I don't.

Then...

I'm just like you.

Then...

a little of you may be me.

What's the next question?

Mamoru Noguchi.

I usually work at a baking factory.

My poems don't articulate that.

I'll start.

Fireworks.

I have no words to approach you.

My soul fades like fireworks into the night.

Each time my words do not soar in you,

my soul-fades even further.

Words are-tumbling everywhere.

At a late-night diner.

At a sleepy train station.

Up in the blue sky.

By a light pole soaked in dog urine.

My unignitable words are oxidized by the surrounding sky.

Oxidized words tumble down to the ground.

I blame you for not igniting.

I bathe you in my cold words.

I hate my words extinguishing you.

I refuse your warmth.

ignore your words.

My words piled on the ground are ignited by your sparkler.

Unlike beautiful fireworks, blue, red, and gold in color,

it was like an initial explosion.

The explosion was small,

yet it still resonates in my body.

My soul is suddenly ignited.

This way

Coffee.

Latte. Thank you.

That's everything.

Make sure.

It's fine.

Here's yours.

I think that's everything.

A dryer, underwear, pajamas, better not check here.

IHoaned you this?

Sorry for stuff like this Better Explanations" book.

I kinda see now.

I'm shocked.

I know.

You've never been this decisive in the past.

Maybe.

You were different in Thailand.

Sorry

But...

You know...

There's something I don't get.

Why so sudden?

It hasn't really sunken in.

I treated you well.

Didn't I?

You were kind.

Okay.

Good.

I'm still wondering why.

It's not your fault.

My fault..

Don't say that.

Can you change that fast?

Are you a different person now?

Our relationship has changed.

That's quite stubborn.

Couldn't we just take a break?

My mind's made up.

Hold on.

That's one-sided.

Do you get to decide everything?

No second chance?

I'm not good with words.

I like that about you.

I know I speak too frankly,

even though I shouldn't.

Ipreferred touching you.

Oh...

It was wrong of me.

I'm sorry.

That doesn't mean you're wrong

I can't explain.

- I'm sorry. - I love you

I thought with you,

we could grow old and still be happy together.

Can't we?

Why not?

I don't get it.

Tell me.

Because of America?

I'm going next year. That's not it!

At least give me some kind of advice for the future.

Is there someone else?

No.

That feels...

like you're blaming me as a person.

Blame...

You're not?

You don't seem to hate me right now.

Because I don't.

Well, then.

guess you just don't love me anymore.

That's a bit rough.

And sudden.

It's not sudden.

Things may seem like they're black or white,

but for me, there were shades of gray.

Oh

You're saying I didn't notice?

You didn't.

I didn't?

Quit being condescending

That's selfish.

I'm gonna go.

Finish your latte.

I'm leaving

Can I still call you?

Sure,

but I may not answer.

Right...

Don't feel bad if I don't.

Bye.

Mamoru.

Usually late Sis?

I was getting flowers.

Sorry.

It's okay, Dad'll like these.

Zoshigaya Cemetery is big for Tokyo.

Almost there.

Do you read Soseki?

Is it the gigantic one?

That's Soseki's grave.

Have you read him?

The last half of "Kokoro."

Why?

My textbook had it.

"Sanshiro" is good.

Mineko's the protagonist.

The novel shows that men have never understood women.

Why would I enjoy that?

- You came. - Absolutely.

You came too.

I guess.

I'm his sister Yukie Noguchi.

Hello.

This is Kayoko Kanamori.

Call me Kayoko.

You came to visit our Dad's grave?

Yes.

The same flowers..

You didn't tell her

Why didn't you?

It's family stuff.

How old's your Mom?

She's young

Too old to be pregnant.

Not that old.

I laughed when she called us to the table

and told us, "I'm pregnant."

My legs shook in shock.

I couldn't talk.

Ifound out how that feels.

She was embarrassed, saying she's gonna have it.

That's cute.

It was crazy.

I was thrilled.

He's asking what the guy thinks,

like he's her father.

He would.

It's important.

Dad's been dead 6 years.

We knew when Mom dated, it'd be weird if she didn't.

It was great.

But this is too fast.

That's love.

It is.

That's impossible.

She told us about birth control when I first started dating.

How old were you?

9th grade.

Oh, wow...

Even then, it's still too late.

Most Moms worry about 9th graders' entrance exams.

Dad dying was the hardest time for her.

You never told me.

I'm why my Mom had a shotgun wedding.

We're actually not related by blood.

I know, I heard.

Well, she didn't want it happening to me.

I used to worry that I was some kind of big mistake.

What'd I do in 20 years if I did the same thing as her?

Sorry about your flowers.

We didn't waste it.

Soseki's probably turning in his grave happily.

Soseki in the grass fits.

Because he wrote "The Grass Pillow?"

Exactly.

Dating him's gotta be boring.

I wouldn't know yet.

Nice flirty eyes.

How long?

You are dating?

A month.

I had no idea.

You guys are cute.

Such aura.

I'm glad.

How'd you meet if we're in the same college?

I've known him.

You're younger?

5 years

1 older than me.

Can I get class notes?

You're literature?

Whatever I have, but I'm economics.

Yukie's dating a younger student.

Why're you spouting old news?

Again. I'm single.

You're like an older sister.

I was an only child until his Dad married my Mom.

He's like the older brother.

You guys are so close.

I'm jealous.

He was so dark at first, I've put in a lot of work.

I strived to make sure the house stayed bright.

You're an only child?

Hometown? Kobe.

You don't have an accent.

It's been 3 years.

Ah, Shin!

Why's Shinnosuke calling you?

Because I called him.

She's cute.

She's nice

She's a bit slutty though.

You're awful.

So, you went to college with her?

You never asked.

I wouldn't have figured it out.

Should we tell her about us?

It's a pain.

Everything's a pain.

Imissed my chance

Shin's gonna come by.

He's Mamoru's roommate.

Shin?

We were postmates.

Postmates?

Post office job.

Don't get involved with him.

What does that mean?

What's going on?

Anniversary of Dad's death.

I don't know what to say..

But it's fine.

This is Kayoko, Shin.

I'm Shinnosuke.

Kayoko.

I work at the post office.

I'm a year ahead of Yukie at our college.

Acquaintances?

Coincidence.

Have you been to Mamoru's place?

- No. -Let's go.

A 10 minute walk.

Is it okay?

Then, let's go.

I'lI go clean up.

Weird.

Is he hiding something?

Probably.

Lie rather than agree!

They're a new couple.

I had no idea.

I don't know much about his love life.

Never came up?

Sometimes mine does.

He was single for a while as far asI know.

You've got someone?

Enough about me.

If I ask about Mamoru, I'll step on a landmine.

Then step. - Really?

So what's Mamoru like?

Asking me?

don't know him well.

I don't really either.

He's a serious guy

He struggles sometimes.

He should let things go but he can't.

If you know that, you will be fine.

He's really a good guy.

He can be a pain, but he's all right.

I'm glad, but I knew that already.

You knew?

You would.

You wanted something new?

I didn't expect much.

Here's a secret you don't know.

He's a poet.

The Darjeeling's a pot?

Yes.

Darjeeling for me.

I'll have.

hot chocolate.

Thanks.

You don't like it?

Talking about Mamoru.

Do I seem that way.

Your face says it's not working out.

I don't see him much.

What an ass.

I don't contact him much either.

You're both even-keeled.

The spark's still there.

Sweet.

I'm out job hunting too.

Lonely?

I enjoy being alone.

I'm not not lonely.

You wanna go hear Mamoru's poetry?

He'd turn so red.

You too. Did he invite you?

Nah, he's too bashful

Next Sunday at the North Hall.

- He invited you? - No, Shin did.

Flirting?

He's mature and easy-going.

He seems that way.

I don't have many friends.

Really?

Especially girls.

Oh.

I've done some things.

You're my first girl friend in a while.

I'm glad.

I hope we'll be friends even if you break up.

f course.

I'm so happy.

Shin's also an older guy friend but he's the first in a long while.

As usual though, he's a friend of Mamoru'sS...

You and Mamoru are close.

Well, we met when I was in 5th grade and he was in 10th.

I'm the one who made the effort.

We've gotten along since then.

So

what'd you think of Shin?

What'd I think?

I trust your intuition.

He's nice and a good listener.

Yukie.

You really like him.

You think so? - I do.

I guess I do like him.

You do.

It's a problem if I do.

Why?

I've told him.

About your ex's?

I didn't mention all of them, but he may think I'm really easy.

You can be great friends and awful lovers.

Really?

I was once full of myself crashing into cliques.

It happens.

You know how it goes keeping the peace.

I have an idea.

Thinking back on it, I've always been this way

I can never tell the difference between friends and lovers?

There were times when I just did it.

I learned a thing or two.

Yeah.

But I can't this time.

Better to wait.

Yeah, you're right.

What am I supposed to do?

Hmm...

What do you think?

Ask him on a date.

We've gone out 6 or 7 times.

We've gone different places something should've happened.

I can't make the move.

Why?

I wouldn't be comfortable together if I really told him how I feel now.

Shin's not like that,

but I don't want to seem easy.

I'd hate ending that way.

You want his love.

- Yeah. - I know.

Greedy.

- Really? - Sure.

You're right.

Can I give advice as an older woman?

Please!

I don't have much experience.

When I like a guy I get them to like me.

You're amazing.

There's a trick.

What?

Jealousy.

Jealousy?

They've gotta feel like what happened, she liked me so much.

The feeling at the moment their passion ignites.

So like coupling arms with

another guy?

Not that aggressive.

Some people get the wrong idea about me.

The important thing is to show him that he's your favorite.

But you said you've done that already.

Time to use some jealousy

You're so sneaky.

I just noticed how passionate things got in the relationship.

I couldn't have planned it.

Was it my brother?

No, before him.

I stole him too.

Wait, wait, hold on.

Hold on, but, but..

Would Shin think I'm easy?

Just act like you're friends, but flirt with him a little.

Absolutely amazing.

Could I do it?

You can and will.

Maybe.

The moment of truth.

Sunday?

Hello.

I'm Etsuko.

Some people may think I'm Etsuo.

It's a terrible name.

It means "happy man".

Just awful.

I officially changed my name.

It was a hard decision.

I already had a pen name which I could've just used.

My parents named me.

Did I need another one after changing my body?

Isn't it just a label?

I believed an orange could be a tangerine.

Regardless of whether we think it's an orange,

people buy tangerines displayed as tangerines.

Which is very sad even though it's not intended.

But it didn't fit me,

So I changed my name

I've recently written something new.

I'll read that poem today.

I'll start.

The Rational Soul

The sea of the soul is forever lonely.

Loneliness is the nature of the soul.

Even though the soul despises loneliness,

a single sea of the soul is a star of absolute loneliness.

The soul becomes a tiny vessel without any reason.

In the smallest form it has been, the soul weeps with all its strength.

The soul later comes to know

this vessel is named a body.

The soul still unsure of its own name,

it then thinks,

I've lost my only security.

Whose hand filled the vessel?

The soul feels trapped by the body

because a lonely soul is always free.

The body resents a selfish soul.

However,

the two become connected, sharing the knowledge of pain.

The soul is terrified,

remembering the pain of separation.

The soul desires escape from the body yet also wants to stay.

The soul changes the moment it knows love.

Love is the soul trying to jump out of the body.

This resembles death,

a longing for another's touch,

wanting again to unite.

For a soul with these desires,

wanting to love and wanting to be loved are the same.

However,

dragging a soul out of another body

resembles violence.

Love makes the soul and body compromise,

allowing the body to touch another body.

The interaction equal because body and soul are connected.

Gently trace the skin.

Play together with fingers.

Thinking deeper, love uses words.

Words are the hands that can touch the soul.

When words fondle the soul,

the soul reaches sweet climax.

Promises most likely are

several souls connected by words.

However,

souls are extremely fragile, and words are very harsh.

Eventually there is violence,

like vaginas and penises.

A smile is necessary.

Slightly curling the mouth

to express unintrusive friendship and bliss.

The soul finally decides to borrow the body's strength.

The soul smiles and approaches the body.

The smile returned by the body is so natural,

deeply astonishing the soul.

A thought now forms.

Is the hand cupping the sea

not that of the soul's?

A soul that hates loneliness more than anything.

I'm Mamoru Noguchi.

I work at a baking factory.

You know,

I've started to feel I may never have my own stories.

I have nothing myself.

Or maybe I do but people don't expect it.

I just hate pitying myself.

I think unique sorrow isn't really sorrow or shouldn't be.

I want to write poetry that isn't related to my identity.

I've said too much. Let me start.

Violence & Choice

I've often pondered what violence is.

I may have finally uncovered the answer.

Forced to believe you haven't been given a choice,

therefore robbing the basic freedom of choice, is violence.

This definition can explain more than just physical violence.

There are two reasons to oppose physical violence.

It brings people closer to death, the irreversible loss of choice,

limiting as well as crushing future chances of choice.

However, this is only one form of violence.

Violence is not allowing or preventing belief in choice.

Violence is not just physical, it can be verbal or psychological.

Violence is not simply the act of aggression thrown into the world.

Incomplete acts of violence loom in the air

as spores exploding out constantly in search for the chance to fertilize.

We have two choices.

Hold these spores inside so they don't explode outward,

or keep them from being fertilized.

Striking someone is not always the true essence of violence.

Violence is only completed when people think they are unjust victims.

This explains how physical punishment and fights are not always violence.

But an act is violence if it results in death and robs freedom of choice.

Striking a person expels spores,

which may fertilize if there is malicious intent.

However, this is not yet violence because it has not robbed choice.

Violence is in fact completed by those who think they are victims.

Would they be surprised to know this?

Would they object by saying that they are purely victims of violence?

They may claim, "I can't choose because I was struck and insulted."

"I'm the one who is hurt."

However, violence is not dependent on someone hurting or being hurt.

People can make any choice but cannot lose the choice to choose.

"People cannot lose the choice to choose."

This is not a problem of tautology as it may seem.

People cultivate violence by deciding not to choose.

They are unknowingly committing acts of violence against themselves.

These acts not only affect themselves,

But they strike out against all of humanity.

The spores then take root and contaminate the land.

People must keep making choices because

making choices is the act of providing.

Always aimed at the future, it is synonymous with believing.

Believing in something uncertain provides the strength for the future.

If people meet with uncertainty but choose to stay together,

they can give each other strength by always believing in one another.

However, violence and its spores will never disappear.

Thus we choose never to make that choice.

Cheers.

Sorry I'm intruding.

I wanted your feedback.

How was it?

I'd come again.

Please do, thank you.

What'd you think?

It wasn't as bad as I thought it'd be.

Good, very good.

Really?

How about you?

I honestly liked yours.

It was really good.

Thanks.

didn't dislike Mamoru's,

but it felt a bit preachy.

Like listening to a Buddhist sutra.

It kinda went over my head.

It probably was worthwhile so I really shouldn't compare,

but Etsuko's made more sense to me.

I'm sure it did.

Youth makes one speak frankly.

Whatever.

I loved Mamoru's last one.

So what I wanted to write

was a kind of answer song.

That's why I wanted to talk.

Mamoru's girlfriend,

his sister

and boyfriend?

No, no...

- He's a friend. - Just a friend.

A friend.

And...

We met last time.

That's right.

I enjoyed both.

Thank you.

First time for everyone else?

Yep.

What's your name again?

Kayoko Kanamori.

Pretty name.

Really?

I like how it sounds.

I hadn't noticed.

What's wrong?

Oh, nothing.

"Etsuo" doesn't sound good.

No offense to other Etsuos.

It really was a hard name to live with.

I wasn't a "happy man.

When did you know?

What?

When did you feel different?

Probably since elementary school.

I knew something was off.

When were you certain?

Watching Kinpachi.

With Aya Ueto?

Yeah, I learned about GID watching her on that show.

What... GI Joe?

Wait, what's that?

It's from Kochikame.

Okay.

GID is Gender Identity Disorder.

I saw myself in Aya's character.

I was totally confused about whether I was a him or a her.

Now it doesn't bother me.

I'm fine with transsexual or even drag queen.

I think I get it.

Just because I knew doesn't mean I felt normal

When I wrote a poem spilling these feelings in high school,

My teacher Mr. Toyama saw talent.

He invited me here.

So many people called me Etsuo because that's the name I used.

I hated the name and just left Japan.

I traveled abroad 3 years.

To study?

Just roaming around.

In America, Europe, and finally Southeast Asia to have surgery.

What about money?

I worked reading palms.

What, no way.

I was never a wrist cutter,

but I needed a way to relieve my suffering.

So I carved my palm, a sorta self study.

That's crazy.

made a name for myself and earned enough money.

When I saved up enough, I got the surgery.

That's impressive.

Please read mine.

- Sure. - Really?

I'lI be very honest though.

No problem.

Both hands please.

Astonishing, look at this. Simian lines on both hands.

What kinda name's that?

The line of greatness.

Tokugawa leyasu had them.

Amazing Yukie.

It means that you can be anything you want.

I don't know what I want to be

Please read mine too.

Sure.

What's funny?

Nothing, just an inside joke.

Girls hold hands in junior high, but guys don't touch each other.

Other than athletes, at least.

That's why I love the soft feeling of guys' palms.

You have really soft hands.

- Really? Yeah.

Let me take a look.

You're really attentive to people.

His hands are extremely wrinkly.

Maybe you worry too much.

Your life line's real short.

Is it really?

You're important to many people.

Wait, will I die young?

Palms can change.

It's not absolute like decided fate.

So, don't worry.

You'll live longer if you stop worrying about others.

Quit being so humble.

Live life.

I'm really not over doing it.

I love your hands.

- May I hold'em? - Sure.

I don't want Shin to die.

He'll die eventually.

Did I say something wrong?

Why?

I was just stating the obvious.

I don't want Shinnosuke to die

But you shouldn't refuse to acknowledge that he will.

This is what's wrong with you.

Oh, okay.

I'll go now.

Show me your hand before you go.

Why?

I don't usually ask, but I'd like to read yours.

No.

You can't go around touching people.

Or can queers?

Stop it.

Don't say that.

She wasn't wrong.

She asked.

I apologize.

I'll go.

Thank you all for coming.

Strange party.

Why...

Why'd you meet me?

I felt responsible.

Responsible?

Never mind.

I chose the wrong words.

Sorry.

The wrong words are fine.

Talk to me.

Words are scary.

What're you thinking?

Please just tell me that.

Please.

Are you sure?

Yes.

From deep in my heart.

I was thinking...

if I threw this water,

what would happen?

On me?

Sorry.

Are you angry?

I don't know why you'd be.

Did I do something?

mean that.

It was just a thought.

The difference between throwing the water or not.

The thought simply came to me.

There's something subconscious

if that's what you're thinking

Why do you need a reason for everything?

Everything?

Maybe you're right.

Seeing that guy yesterday showed me why you left me.

What guy?

The poet.

Anyway,

I know you didn't cheat on me.

What then? It's just...

Just that..

Your feelings moved to him.

It's not that.

Then what?

It's only been 2 months.

That kind of girl, huh?

Fine.

How long have you known Yukie?

We were in the same English club at school.

Be careful.

Of what?

Keep your distance.

Why?

She does anyone.

I know.

Did you?

Why do you care?

Right...

Do you have any right to be jealous?

Jealous? Me?

I guess that happens.

when people get possessive.

Why are you with him?

He's the worst.

Don't say that.

I'm leaving.

How can you say that?

He's my brother.

Separated at...

I wonder...

What'll happen?

Nothing

I'm outta here.

By the way,

Ive already slept with Yukie.

3 times in 2 years.

How long to heal?

It's just a jammed finger.

What about him?

No response to my email, I'm sure everything's fine.

What did you like about him?

His eyes.

Nose and fingers.

Everything.

You really liked him.

Yeah, are you disappointed?

Why?

For my bad taste in men.

Do you believe that?

No, I don't.

Good.

Are you disappointed?

About what?

Do you regret meeting me?

I'm not the brother you expected.

Would you rather not have met?

I'm quite different.

I wanna hold you.

Can I?

We shouldn't.

Right.

Sorry.

No, I'm sorry.

I have a habit of wondering about the people and things in front of me.

I'm not sure of what to do.

Or I know what to do but not what's right.

That's absurd.

No, no.

If you know what to do, you should just do it.

Because I don't know.

I hurt people I don't intend to.

You didn't hurt me.

Not now.

Maybe I'm a slut.

What?

Even if I don't do it, the urge is still there.

More than Yukie.

Ijust feel like melting away.

Is it wrong to love everyone?

You're smart.

What?

What is love?

Not sure, maybe a feeling that bubbles inside.

Something different from lust?

They're mixed.

That's true.

Do you split them?

What?

Love and lust.

I probably do.

There's no lust in families.

Do you think so?

They're ambiguous.

I wonder if it's wrong of me to think like this in our society.

In your letter to me, you wrote that

you were really worried about me.

Why were you worried?

I told you I didn't know.

I wrote it quick one morning and sent it.

Okay.

Are you worried about me?

I've never worried about you.

Right.

That doesn't mean I don't care.

I'm fine with whoever you are.

That doesn't mean I'm not interested.

I know.

I was happy you were who you were when we met.

So I haven't changed?

That's not it.

You have changed.

I didn't know you at all.

I see.

But I was happy.

Just that.

Thank you.

What...

That gives me a way to go on.

I work at the baking factory 4 days a week.

For 2 years now.

People say Yamazaki Baking is one of the most grueling jobs.

I've heard

Real mind-numbing work.

A lot of people quit after 3 or 4 days.

Only a few haven't.

I'm one.

It's easy for me.

12-hour days with an hour break.

11 hours doing the same thing.

Putting sesame on sweet buns,

adding cherry blossom petals.

I don't mind it.

Everyone looks dead finishing their shift.

But there are a few who stay on.

They look like zombies.

Do you think you're like that?

You're different than that.

I could even work another day a week.

I've done it before.

I make 240,000 yen a month.

I'd make 300,000 yen, great right?

It's not bad money, it's just that...

I'm scared.

It's not like I planned to work in a baking factory.

But what if it's my dream job.

What's wrong if it is?

Nothing.

It's not that.

Really.

Sorry.

It's my fault.

What I meant to say is

I wanted to meet you.

I'm being honest.

I thought now was the right time to meet.

I didn't expect my life to get better or worse.

I just wanted you to be proud of me...

as your brother, I mean.

I hoped you'd naturally want to go around bragging about me.

That was my wish.

Proud of you...

I was surprised that I felt that way.

That's all.

I felt ashamed.

Not about what you really think.

Sorry, that's not right.

I'd want to bring my close friends to your poetry group.

Don't.

I wouldn't if you minded.

But you don't.

You're just scared people will be bored hearing you read.

Sorry.

Why apologize?

I'm sorry.

I know I'm glad I met you.

So am I.

Then why did you bring up disappointment?

I've never felt that way.

I just wanted to see you.

I wanted to know more about you.

I really did.

Maybe I was desperate.

I see.

I really loved Noboru.

He's smart and knows how to go with the flow.

I admired that.

It actually helped me find direction.

Find direction isn't right.

I guess live...

It made me think about how one lives in society

That's why things went south.

The problem was simply a difference in values.

Maybe it sounds more like a difference in perspectives.

The world isn't information, is it?

Being smart and having the ability to process information

may be vital to living life

Maybe, I should've stuck it out.

But I started thinking

what if I'm simply information to him

Something that just needs processing.

Some problem to solve.

couldn't stop thinking about it.

Did you tell him that?

That I'm not information?

That I'm not a pet, I'm a person?

That I have thoughts and feelings even if I look dumb?

Should I have to say those things?

Everything would end.

don't need to be admired just respected.

Saying those words just makes it harder.

Probably true.

That's why I'm glad I met you.

You're not like that.

You know the world is not information.

You're what I expected.

I longed to meet you.

That's why I was so happy.

know now it was far from disappointment.

Ouch.

Oh, sorry.

It still hurts.

Sorry.

They're late.

Huh, what?

I'll get some pickles.

What?

I ran out, so I made some.

No way. - They're good.

Bring'em out sooner.

I wanted them to marinate.

These...

are sour!

Bad?

Nah, they're good.

Perfect with beer.

Probably European beer.

Really? Great.

They're good, Shin.

These are perfect for cherry blossom season.

Great, I'll send some.

Don't send them, we'll go to Harima-zaka like last year.

Cherry blossoms.

I'm moving to Hyogo next month

I've only sent Mamoru an email.

What'll I do?

Wanna live here?

You quitting your job?

Nope.

They're shipping you to the countryside?

I'm going to assist the Post Master.

After 3 to 5 years, I can come back

and become a Post Master.

That sucks.

You'll miss me?

Send me New Year's and summer greetings.

I will too.

That doesn't solve my lonely problem.

Such a sweet thing to say.

Where'd you go?

Convenience store by the station.

Thanks for getting these.

I've got a night shift.

Really?

Someone cut their finger off.

I've gotta go in.

See you.

Be careful.

You're drunk

See you.

Did we take too long?

Were we-too-soon?

What'd you say?

She's asleep...

Have some pickles.

What?

These pickles I-made.

Thanks.

I'm transferring to Hyogo.

Whereabouts? Akashi branch.

Near my hometown.

Come and visit when you're back.

I'll send letters.

You write?

To people I like.

Delicious.

Kayoko.

Yeah.

Answer some questions?

Depends on the questions.

What do you like?

Eating and sleeping

Why?

I like satisfying cravings.

What makes you happy?

When someone shows me love.

That's for sure.

What about you?

- "When someone shows me love." - Besides that.

Okay.

Someone showing gratitude.

Who do you admire?

My Mom.

Why?

She gave me life and raised me.

And your Dad?

I don't dislike him.

don't admire him either, I just have to pay him respect.

- Or did. - Did?

Think they're the same?

Me?

Admiration and respect.

I have no idea.

Sure.

I never considered it.

think admiration

is earned by someone who's different from you.

They dazzle you.

Respect, on the other hand,

is given to someone who's similar to you.

Did I pass?

What is "similar"?

What I don't like having done to me, you won't like having done to you.

That's basis of respect.

Good point.

What if I don't mind those things that you don't like.

There's no way to know without asking.

Is that why you ask?

I don't know you yet.

Do you ask everyone?

Maybe.

Are you always like that?

Keeping things fresh?

That's hard to do.

lit shocks me when people I know show their true colors.

I hate people who think they know me and say they respect me.

Harsh.

I am.

That's when I'm most alive.

When everyone's alive?

Yeah, that's it.

When I realize how little I really know about the world.

What're you.

thinking now?

I'm wondering why this guy's asking me these questions.

Seriously?

I asked because I wanted to know what you thought.

Iwas thinking about what you were thinking

And you were thinking about what I was thinking.

Talking in circles.

Guess so.

Very true.

Yeah.

Sleepy?

I drank too much.

Go to bed.

Should I set your alarm?

7 please.

Shin.

Coward.

You're back.

You're leaving early.

I get coffee with the paper.

Because you got promoted?

You got my email.

Could've told me sooner.

I'll ask Yukie about moving in.

How about Kayoko?

Too complicated.

I'm falling for Kayoko.

She's falling for me too.

Oh, okay.

I didn't ask her, but it's obvious.

I know.

Nothing's happened, but...

Whatever, don't worry about me.

It's fine.

Sorry.

It's fine, go.

See you.

I wanna die.

Don't say that.

Forget it.

About Kayoko, it's no big deal.

It's better.

Don't die.

Why not?

I'd miss you.

Am I living for you?

Not just me, but all of our friends would miss you.

So selfish.

I've got nothing left.

I've lost my words.

I'm completely empty.

Wait 5 years.

What'll happen then?

I'll come support you.

You can do whatever you want.

Are you serious?

Become what you want.

I'll be the Post Master.

Alright?

I'll be back.

Get going.

I'm home.

Welcome back.

I drank too much.

Sorry, I had to go.

Put the key in the mailbox if you leave before Mamoru's back.

There's coffee.

Eggs and bread are in the fridge.

Take what you like.

Shinnosuke.

Did he tell you?

About Hyogo?

And this place?

Do you want to move in?

I'm not leaving home.

Got-it.

Do you have any other friends?

Shinnosuke's leaving you.

I've got Kayoko.

Until she gets a job.

Shin.

I've got a crush on Shin.

What'll I do?

Forget about him.

Why?

Shinnosuke is too good for you.

Why would you say that?

Shinnosuke's a nice guy.

Not just to you.

You got the wrong idea.

Why are you talking down to me?

I'm worried about you.

You can't be supportive?

Supportive?

What would change?

Kayoko's too good.

She's far too good

to be with a guy like you.

I think so too.

Why don't you disagree?

You're right.

You have no right to love.

Love...

Why're you together?

What do you mean?

Don't you love her?

I can't express it with words.

You're a failed poet.

Words have their limitations.

Are we done? I'm tired.

Tell me how it started?

How what started?

Between you and Kayoko.

She sent me a letter.

What kind of letter?

Asking to meet.

- How long... - Great letter.

I was so moved, I went to see her.

I'm going to bed.

You prefer letters?

Rather than email?

I think I do.

Night.

Good night.

Do you have...

paper and an envelope?

What's wrong?

I wrote a letter.

A letter?

To Shin.

I thought I'd leave it here at my brother's.

Could you listen to it?

I'm really embarrassed by what I've written.

Is it something I should hear?

There's no one else I can ask.

If you're sure.

Okay, I'll start.

Dear Shinnosuke Tada,

Good morning, good afternoon,

good evening, welcome home.

Forgive my greetings, I don't know when you're reading this.

I'm bashful addressing you this way.

Please understand that this uncharacteristic letter

with uncharacteristic words is not from the usual me.

I'm sure you already know,

I'm falling for you.

I-don't know what I should say

Nothing comes to mind.

Do you have to fall for me because I have fallen for you?

Obviously, you do not.

There is nothing I can do to influence

how you feel.

I believe I understand how you feel about me.

I know you do not feel the same way.

If this letter is not from the usual me

I thought your feelings for me could change.

If I am not who you think I am,

maybe my love will find a chance.

That's my hope in writing you.

But the thought of you thinking I'm an easy girl,

makes me want to tear this letter up.

I don't want to think that way.

I just...

realized something.

I simply want you to love me.

All of these written words encompass that feeling.

Does that scare you?

Jumping from like to love,

I'm finding myself a bit lost.

I'm being honest.

All of my words and actions toward you

yearn for your love.

I must first love before I can be loved.

That's what the Nuns taught me

at my missionary school.

I don't feel I ever have.

Without being loved,

or being taught how to love,

I don't think I could ever love someone.

As I write this,

I'm starting to realize just how unreasonable this love letter is.

But we shouldn't give up on these feelings

even if we don't know how to love.

There's a feeling in me that I want to call love.

For now at least

Do you feel the same?

I'm sure you do.

Maybe you feel it for someone else.

But you can't nurture this feeling by yourself.

I know from experience.

If only you would direct that feeling toward me,

it would keep growing bigger.

Then I'm sure that feeling would become neither yours nor mine.

Even if it ends up being for someone else in the future,

it's worth the time to nurture and grow it.

But I want you to be the one I nurture this feeling with.

What you need,

I can give you.

I've rambled on here but these are my true feelings.

Good night.

See you.

But not goodbye.

I await your reply.

Yours truly, Yukie.

Wonderful letter.

Really?

It really is.

Hello.

Hey.

Your place is empty.

Yeah.

Are you gonna live alone?

I'm looking for a roommate.

Do you have any friends?

It's just a roommate I don't need a friend.

Shinnosuke and I weren't friends at first

It's easier.

I'll choose whoever is convenient at the time.

If they have the money.

What's your rent?

85,000 yen.

Koenji's expensive.

Nice of your mother.

I work too.

Where?

I'm not telling.

Why?

I told you.

Did you?

You should remember.

How about 70,000 yen?

What?

Wanna live together?

What will you tell Yukie?

You're my sister.

If she asks why you kept it secret?

I'll say it was complicated.

My Mom got hospitalized

so I might go back.

When?

Last Sunday

What's wrong?

Ovarian cancer.

They found it early.

She'll be there about a month.

Can you afford it?

Probably not.

I'll give up my place.

In Tokyo?

I don't approve.

Why?

You can't just quit college after going for 3 years.

It's a waste of money.

I won't quit.

Taking a leave?

I only have one year of compulsory tests left.

Commuting from Kobe is cheaper.

It'd help if I can stay here.

I thought it'd be better to look for work out there.

These things happen.

What about your life?

If she dies, you're alone

What?

It'll be expensive even for 1 year.

You'll live in two places,

and have no time with work.

I can give up this apartment.

We'll find a cheaper place.

You'll be better off working in Tokyo.

I just want to be close to my Mom.

Who knows when she'll die.

Is she dying?

How old is she?

Could l...

borrow money?

How much?

500,000 yen.

I can give you about half now.

Sorry.

Can you wait 2 months?

I'lI have to ask the hospital

I can start working 6 days a week.

No consumer loans.

I know.

Thanks.

No problem.

Will you meet her?

She's not dying.

She will someday.

I can't go in and out of a family?

She's not family?

Didn't time ensure she isn't?

Us too?

Do you blame Mom?

Do you blame Dad?

I know things were complicated,

but he did terrible things to her.

I think it was mutual.

Dad's doing great with my_step mom here.

So it wasn't all his fault. some aren't compatible

Same here.

Good to know.

For some people, separating is the answer.

Maybe...

But which is the right choice?

If you want to stay together, but you have to separate?

I wouldn't know.

Yeah you do.

Well it's simple.

How so?

Whatever you choose is right.

Yeah.

Things work out for the best.

So simple.

Sometimes.

That's true.

What's that?

What's wrong?

"Dear Shin'

Ah, Yukie.

A love letter.

What?

Yukie has a new boyfriend.

Didn't you hear?

No.

She can't keep doing this anymore.

Please throw this out.

That's private.

So you've been writing.

It's old.

Where've you been recently?

None of your business.

What'll you do?

About what?

Are you moving in or not?

Is it okay?

This won't happen again.

Do you regret it?

Doesn't matter.

This just won't happen again.

We'd be nothing more than roommates.

What's the rent?

70,000 yen.

Any other rules?

Not really.

I'd like to move in.

When?

Next month, April 1st.

You better not be fooling me.

Don't worry, no jokes.

I'm hungry.

Wanna go out?

Can I shower?

Sure.

Get me something? Okay.

Where're you going?

Kobeya near the station.

Something sweet.

Got it.

There's the Yurakucho Line and lots of convenient stores.

It's accommodating.

It's official then.

Thank you.

I'm Etsuko.

This is my first tweet.

I've always lurked around.

I am sure most of my followers already know,

I write-poetry outside my day job.

Although slowly,

-am-writing more now.

The reason I wrote on my-blog and not Twitter

was the fear of how the-words would flow.

The 140-character limit may-benefit my writing.

But there are no line breaks.

It's a bit different from what-I wanted to do.

But today,Id like to tweet a poem as an experiment.

This may be the first and last.

should note, this poem was not penned by me.

But-it's a-poem I really enjoy.

I'm putting it out without the author's permission.

I believe this is the intent of this poem.

Even if it's not the author's.

Each tweet will be one line from the poem.

I'm sorry if this floods your timeline.

Please spread the poem if you like it.

If possible, in its entirety.

We might be in for a major flood in all of our timelines.

Let's start.

Love Letter

One night, Ms. Noguchi wrote a letter.

The letter was brief and undemanding,

with words of love that move people's hearts.

But people's thoughts are not always communicated.

In a world filled with undelivered messages,

Ms. Noguchi's letter and thoughts were also undelivered.

Her friend Ms. Kanamori was pained to learn this.

Camels carried many letters in the past.

Gulls have replaced them to fulfill that role today.

Ever-changing thoughts can only be known by the words.

Where do these undelivered thoughts go?

In parentheses: They go nowhere of course.

I could not stop thinking about this.

One night, every clock in the world showed the same time.

Ms. Noguchi anticipated this and debuted as a radio DJ that night.

She called for faxes with undelivered words of love from around the world.

The entire world listened to her late night program.

On this one night only,

Ms. Noguchi read countless faxes of love.

Some reached its respective listener while others did not.

All these undelivered thoughts pained every "Ms. Kanamori" around the world.

Ms. Noguchi closed her program with the following words.

Dawn has come, let us say goodbye.

My words of love belong to only one.

Even so,

they reach the hearts of all.

On that note,

Goodbye everyone.

Thank you all for coming today.

If you'd like to meet the cast, they will be available in the lobby.

Thank you very much.

Two years later

-

-

Coloskin.

Coloskin.

Coloskin.

Coloskin.

Coloskin.

Coloskin.

Getting off?

What's wrong?

I'll get the next one.

Why?

I'll call you.

I apologize.

Hi.

Hi.

Hi.

Hey!

So much make-up.

Shut up.

"I'll take the next one."

You snot.

You're a butt-head.

Why the uniform?

Women love it.

Women love that?

Yeah, girls love uniforms.

I don't.

What're you doing?

The bandmaster wants to hit on girls while in Japan.

Don't blame him.

I strike out in Seoul.

'Cause I'm Japanese.

I'm always ignored.

Why're you back?

Korea's New Year is the beginning of February.

I didn't know.

Well, it is.

Every soldier in Korea tries to take as much leave as they can.

We're off before and after.

So the flirting.

You come home just for girls?

And why shouldn't I?

Did you call your parents?

Why would I?

I can't see them.

You should.

Why?

Because I might die?

I'll be fine. I'm in the marching band.

What's that?

We do parades on the front line with the American and Korean militaries.

So not out front?

I said we're at the front.

We're rearranged immediately if attacked.

You want that?

Want what?

Music during war.

Music proved to be necessary.

What're you up to?

I edit a theater magazine.

Give me a break.

Don't say it like that.

You should perform.

Especially now.

Do it.

It's not that easy.

Most things are easy.

Do it.

Are you in Japan?

No, I'm not.

Why hide such a great gig?

Is it great?

Isn't it?

Why'd you join?

The military?

A private police force isn't military.

The duties are the same.

I haven't killed anyone.

That's worse.

So I should kill?

You're playing it safe.

What's that mean?

So nobody can blame you.

Avoiding responsibility.

Don't say it like that.

You got the same cell?

If I do?

No, forget it.

I'm sorry.

I am sorry too.

Don't you go off and die.

I won't die.

Avoid killing if possible.

That's a big request.

You're always difficult.

See you.

JR

JR

JR

JR

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