[Verse 1]
The wind is strong – likely due to an approaching typhoon – and despite the sun being out, there are scattered drops of rain; it is very localized and stops quickly. I buy some vegetables at a roadside farm stand.
[Pre-Chorus 1]
It has been sunny here for a long time; while there are sweet potatoes, the selection of other vegetables is sparse.
[Chorus 1]
The wind from the south,
Blowing with gale – force intensity,
Threatens to knock me off balance,
Carrying the scent of the sea.
[Verse 2]
The friendly woman at the shop swaps the bitter melon I was about to buy for a different, yellow-green one, warning that the first might turn red by evening. Small sweet potatoes are lined up for sale.
[Pre-Chorus 2]
I pay and ask what vegetables will be appearing on the shelves next.
She tells me cabbage and napa cabbage.
[Chorus 2]
The wind from the south,
Blowing with gale – force intensity,
Threatens to knock me off balance,
Carrying the scent of the sea.
[Verse 3]
Leaving the shop, I head east along the coastal highway. The sky is overcast, but it doesn’t rain again. I pass a shochu distillery and turn right. I ride down a hill, pass a concrete plant, and turn right.
[Pre-Chorus 3]
I come to a halt at the JR railway crossing, check for a train – though none is due – and then cross over.
[Chorus 3]
The wind from the south,
Blowing with gale – force intensity,
Threatens to knock me off balance,
Carrying the scent of the sea.
[Bridge]
A pine forest near the sea comes into view.
I pull into the parking area as usual,
Disengage the clutch and shift into neutral,
Then put down the side stand and stop.
[Final Chorus]
The wind from the south,
Blowing with gale – force intensity,
Threatens to knock me off balance,
Carrying the scent of the sea.
[Outro]
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