What did Kaguya want? This question has intrigued audiences for centuries, as the tale of Kaguya, or Princess Kaguya, is one of Japan’s most enduring and beloved folk stories. The story revolves around a mysterious bamboo shoot that grows into a child, Kaguya-hime, who is discovered by an elderly couple living in the mountains. As the narrative unfolds, Kaguya’s desires and motivations become central to the plot, raising profound questions about identity, belonging, and the human condition.
Kaguya’s story begins with the discovery of the bamboo shoot, which seems to grow overnight. The elderly couple, who are childless, cut the bamboo and find a small, beautiful child inside. They name her Kaguya, which means “shining moon” in Japanese. Kaguya grows up quickly and becomes a source of wonder and fascination for the villagers. She is unique, not only in her appearance but also in her behavior and mannerisms, which seem to defy the norms of her time.
As Kaguya grows older, she begins to express a desire for independence and freedom. This desire is evident in her refusal to conform to the traditional roles and expectations placed upon her as a princess. Despite her royal status, Kaguya longs for a life that is true to herself and her own interests. What does Kaguya want, then? She wants to understand her origins and the reason for her existence.
Her quest for identity leads her to the palace, where she is treated as a princess. However, Kaguya quickly realizes that this life is not for her. She longs for the simplicity of her mountain upbringing and the connection to nature that she once enjoyed. This desire for a life that is more authentic and fulfilling is a central theme in the story of Kaguya.
In her quest for understanding, Kaguya encounters various characters who represent different aspects of her own identity. These characters include her adoptive parents, the villagers, and the nobleman who becomes her guardian. Each character challenges Kaguya’s assumptions and helps her to better understand herself and her place in the world.
Ultimately, Kaguya’s desires lead her to the moon, where she is revealed to be the Moon Princess, sent to Earth as a child to fulfill a prophecy. This revelation answers the question of what Kaguya wanted: she wanted to return to her celestial home, but she also wanted to experience life on Earth and learn about the human condition.
The story of Kaguya is a timeless tale that speaks to the universal human desire for identity and belonging. It reminds us that our deepest desires often lie beyond the expectations and roles society has imposed upon us. Kaguya’s journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the courage it takes to pursue one’s true desires, even when they seem impossible to fulfill.
