In just seven minutes, a Japanese animation short has moved millions of viewers around the globe, earning the title of “Japan’s most touching tear-jerker.” This poignant story, told through the lens of life and death, reminds us of the fleeting nature of existence and the importance of cherishing every moment.
The animation is divided into two parts: The Day of Departure and Father Above the Clouds. It tells the emotional journey of an elephant father and his family. Instead of dialogue, the film’s story is sung, with lyrics personally written by Akimoto Yasushi. Its unique approach, paired with a moving soundtrack, has been hailed as “Japan’s most touching seven minutes and twenty seconds” by a prominent Japanese record company.
A touching tale of life’s final chapter
The narrative begins with the elephant father learning he has limited time to live. In The Day of Departure, he chooses to spend his remaining days creating lasting memories with his family — playing with his two children and enjoying peaceful strolls with his wife. Despite the looming shadow of loss, the family strives to hold on to their everyday joys.
However, the inevitable happens, and the father’s passing brings grief and reflection. In Father Above the Clouds, the story shifts to how the family copes with his absence. The children recall their happiest moments with their father, while their mother fondly remembers the life they built together. Symbolically, the father transforms into a cloud in the sky, eternally watching over his family. This transformation is not just a metaphor, but a beautiful reminder that love and memories endure, even after death.
Inspired by the novel The Elephant’s Back
This animation was adapted from Akimoto Yasushi’s novel, The Elephant’s Back, which delves into themes of death and the essence of life. The book tells the story of Fujiyama Yukihiro, a 48-year-old office worker with a loving wife and two children, whose seemingly perfect life is upended when he is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
Faced with only six months to live, Yukihiro decides against treatment that might prolong his life and instead chooses to make his remaining days meaningful. He reconnects with people he has drifted apart from, including a high school friend, an estranged brother, and even his first love. These heartfelt farewells help him reflect on his life and rediscover the simple joys that had once made it fulfilling. By choosing to live authentically and embrace the end with courage, Yukihiro offers a powerful example of how facing mortality can inspire a deeper appreciation for life.
Life’s greatest lesson: Cherish every moment
Both the animation and the novel underscore a universal truth: Life is unpredictable, and its fleeting nature makes every moment precious. The elephant father’s journey reminds us that even in the face of loss, there is an opportunity to create memories and deepen bonds with loved ones.
While life may be imperfect and fraught with challenges, it is the act of cherishing the present — our loved ones, our experiences, and even the mundane — that defines its beauty. This heartfelt narrative challenges us to reflect on what truly matters in life — relationships, gratitude, and the legacy of love we leave behind — while reminding us to cherish the people and moments that make life meaningful before it’s too late. After all, isn’t treasuring what we have the most meaningful way to live?
Translated by Katy Liu
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