TARI TARI - Episode 5

The past is sometimes the answer to the present.

In what was a heart-wrenching episode in more ways than one, TARI TARI successfully delivered the drama that the series needed after a mediocre showing in the last episode. Not only did this episode expand on Wakana's tragic past and her attempts to forget about it, but it also served as a powerful reminder that, at many times, humans aren't aware of or don't appreciate the things they have until they're gone. And of course, when that happens, it's too late and all one can do is continue living with regrets. True, Wakana was undeniably very rude to her mother as a child, but I don't think it's uncommon for someone, an inexperienced child, no less, who's striving to do their best academically, to believe that nothing else matters. Add in the pressure of passing entrance exams and you have one stubborn little girl in Sakai Wakana.

Although she might have been indirectly involved in her mother's death (i.e. her impolite refusal of her hospitalized mother's request to write music and sing together might have resulted in some emotional damage, ultimately leading to physical deterioration of the body), I believe Wakana still continues to blame herself fully for everything. The decision to get rid of her piano must have been Wakana's attempt at freeing herself of her guilt and regret. This also explains why she is so unwilling to participate in musical activities, as they remind her of her mother's passion for music. Although she seems to have finally cut ties with everything related to music in her life, I'm quite sure that Wakana will end up returning to it thanks to Konatsu and co. That, and the picture that Sawa's mother showed her is slightly implying that she'll play an integral part in the choir club at Shirahamazaka High School, just like her mother did.

Another person of interest in the photo is none other than the vice principal and advisor of the official choir club at the school, Takakura Naoko. Now that we know she's not just some random woman who finds pleasure in stepping on Konatsu's desire to sing, and that she probably feels very strongly about the need to be serious when it comes to music, it's easier to understand her harsh words towards Konatsu who, to be honest, does give the image that she's just fooling around most of the time. What I'd like to know now is how the three alumni (Shiho, Mahiru, Naoko) went about their daily lives back then as that may provide answers to some of the unanswered questions that are still floating around. Now, where did Dora the Explorer go?