What was the most refreshing experience in writing a book?
―The most surprising thing recently was TK from Ling tosite sigure composing music for "Chainsaw Man." He understands the story and creates songs based on it, and he skillfully sublimates difficult episodes into music.
TK: It takes me a really long time to get a story into my head. It's been a struggle for the past 20 years (laughs).
— But it was fantastic. Among various artists responsible for the ending theme, I thought it was the most challenging part, and there was a sense of surpassing the high hurdle.
TK: It's a piece I'm proud of!
— When I read "Sergio Echigo" (※one of Ling tosite sigure's songs) in your book, I was struck by its impact for the first time.
TK: (laughs)
— Seeing that title again, I realized that various adults were involved, and I was really happy about it.
TK: Regarding the title "Sergio Echigo," the president asked, "Why does it have to be this title?" multiple times (laughs).
— (laughs) Negotiations and imaginations about that must have been quite entertaining, but it's undoubtedly challenging for the parties involved. Looking back, it made me realize that having a policy of not giving in no matter what is necessary. Now that it's turned into a book, what are your impressions?
TK: I know that I wrote it, but I don't have many memories of the actual writing process... Even when I flip through it now, it doesn't feel like something I wrote.
— It's like being in the zone or looking at it from a higher perspective, perhaps?
TK: Yes, that's right. While writing, the lyrics and emotions were quite close. Some parts were based on facts, so it's easier to look back on those, but I don't have a strong sense of books being present within me. So, I end up thinking, "No way, I can't have written this much myself," even though, of course, I did write it (laughs).
―What kind of environment were you writing in?
TK: I was writing in a cafe in a hotel that I wouldn't usually go to. It had a gorgeous atmosphere with people having meetings and business discussions, while others were just sitting and enjoying their coffee, looking at the scenery. The sense of solitude amidst the flow of different people, as if being abroad, was quite pleasant. And when my coffee ran out, they refilled it for me (laughs).
―(laughs) Were you writing on a computer?
TK: Yes, on a computer. When it comes to lyrics, I usually create them while singing the melody. I consider the relationship between vowels and consonants and their meaning while singing, so if I write the lyrics first, it often feels off when matched with the melody. That's why I don't write lyrics outside; it's mostly for proofreading interview articles.
One refreshing aspect of the experience of writing a book was the ability to work outside with a computer. My music-making process often starts in the studio, touching equipment and instruments.
―After reading the book, I thought you were really funny. There were many moments where I couldn't help but chuckle. I think it will appeal to not only dedicated Ling tosite sigure fans but also to those who have heard the band's name or songs but haven't read many interview articles.
TK: Is that so? I tried to keep it low-key (laughs). There are probably only a few "!" in there.
―The dry humor was quite entertaining.
TK: It's uncertain if that humor comes across... (laughs).
―I believe it will be amusing to a broader audience, not just dedicated listeners. Especially, the way you depict scenes and your choice of words seem to be connected to the lyrics you write. Were there any common aspects between your music expression and writing?
TK: There are many things I want to express in lyrics but can't quite fit them in. Japanese has fewer sounds compared to English, making it challenging to infuse meaning into them. However, with a book, there are no such constraints, and I could include those thoughts directly. Describing scenes was also quite enjoyable and easy to write.
凛として時雨・TK「言葉が見える本の世界に飛び込んでみた」 Original article in Japanese
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