FAQ for
Ikiru (1952) More at IMDbPro »

This powerful song is generally accepted as follows:

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Life is brief. Fall in love, maidens, Before the crimson bloom fades from your lips, Before the tides of passion cool within you, For those of you who know no tomorrow.

Life is brief. Fall in love, maidens, Before his hands take up his boat, Before the flush of his cheeks fades, For those of you who will never return here.

Life is brief. Fall in love, maidens, Before the boat drifts away on the waves, Before the hand resting on your shoulder becomes frail, For those who will never be seen here again.

Life is brief. Fall in love, maidens, Before the raven tresses begin to fade, Before the flame in your hearts flicker and die, For those to whom today will never return.

By Isamu Yoshii

It is known as: 'Gondora no Uta' (Song of the Gondola)

The melody was composed by Shimpei Nakayama.

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