Ukiyo: And we run ’til we die

Ukiyo[u - key - o] - Japanese

Ukiyo is a Japanese term that has been interpreted in many meaningful ways, such as the floating world, sorrowful world, everyday roads, circle of existence, or excusing oneself from the worries of life. However, I felt more relatable to the term when I personified it as a runaway, a vagabond, or a nomad. Someone who seeks freedom more than anything else. A constant pursuit of happiness, even when it’s temporary. One who dances in places that remembers, kisses different faces only once, wishes to be forgotten by everything they leave behind, and whatever night they bid farewell to, they know they have lived.