Worlds in Concert: Genshin Impact's Fusion of Global Music Styles
Exploring Linguistic Diversity and Cultural Narratives in Genshin Impact’s Original Soundtrack
05.08.2024
From Beijing to Paris: Music in the Global Eighteenth Century
Guided by Professor Qingfan Jiang
Abstract
Welcome to "Worlds in Concert: Genshin Impact's Fusion of Global Music Styles," a digital exploration of the innovative musical landscape created by Yu-Peng Chen and the HoYo-Mix team for the wildly popular video game, "Genshin Impact." This curated website delves into the diverse cultural resonances embedded within the game's soundtrack, highlighting how music serves as a narrative vehicle that enhances player immersion and enriches the gaming experience.
"Genshin Impact" is renowned not just for its engaging gameplay and stunning visuals, but also for its exceptional soundtrack, which features a remarkable blend of musical styles and languages. From the haunting Latin choirs in the battle themes of the Harbingers —"Saltatio Favillae," "Wrath of Monoceros Caeli," "Polumnia Omnia," and "Absolutio Absoluta Absolutissime" — to the vibrant echoes of ancient Chinese texts in "Rage Beneath the Mountains," modernizing Peking Opera for a global audience with Yunjin's Opera "The Divine Damsel of Devastation," and the delicate notes of French in "La vaguelette," each composition adds a unique flavor to the characters and stories being told.
This website aims to explore the significance of these varied linguistic elements, examining how the use of Latin not only connects with the game's antagonist themes but also resonates with historical and mythical undertones, much like the ancient "Chuci" verses. Similarly, the inclusion of Mandarin and French across different themes creates distinct soundscapes that transport players to diverse cultural realms, enhancing the global appeal of the game.
Through detailed analyses of these compositions, "Worlds in Concert" seeks to illustrate how "Genshin Impact" uses its soundtrack not just as background music but as a fundamental component of its storytelling, creating a richer, more immersive world.
Disclaimer: This website is created for educational and research purposes only. All music tracks and related content discussed here are properties of their respective copyright owners, HoYo-Mix and miHoYo, and are used under fair use guidelines to analyze and discuss the music's impact on global cultural representation in gaming.
Chinese in Genshin Impact:
Harmonizing Ancient Verse and Modern Melody
In the vibrant tapestry of "Genshin Impact's" soundtrack, the fusion of traditional Chinese elements with contemporary influences strikingly encapsulates the game's cultural depth and innovative spirit. This section delves into two significant compositions that exemplify this synthesis: "Devastation and Redemption" from the EP album Fleeting Colors in Flight, and the Azhdaha battle theme. These tracks not only highlight the adeptness of Chinese developers in weaving their rich cultural heritage into modern gaming but also explore the thematic resonance of ancient literary forms and modern musical expressions within the game's narrative context.
Azhdaha's Battle Theme: Rage Beneath the Mountains
In the immersive world of "Genshin Impact," the battle theme "Rage Beneath the Mountains" fighting the ancient dragon Azhdaha stands out for its profound integration of historical and modern musical elements. Composed by Yu-Peng Chen, the track features lyrical content inspired by the ancient text "Chuci" (Verses of Chu), an emblematic collection that vividly represents the emotional and spiritual depths of Chinese literary tradition. This soundtrack not only complements the mythical presence of Azhdaha but also encapsulates the essence of traditional Chinese lore combined with contemporary musical styles.
Visual of Azhdaha
Live performance of
Rage Beneath the Mountains
Chinese Transcript:
邃宇兮 黑翳逐
山野兮 窘步
出！/ 幽宫兮 余既伏
君常违兮 国隳芜 / 乌有兮 归处
蓄雠怨增欷 / 零落兮 困洿渎
惶惶兮 索陵迟恶途 / 奈何乎！
归兮！
巉石峦岳毂转乎
万川湍流吞穹庐
山崩岩崒
愆辜安除？/ 愆辜安除？
零落兮 困洿渎
浇季兮 穷路
林峻茂兮 掩殊途
审行迷延伫远兮 山穹覆
Official English Translation:
(Long ago) In the field of stars, expelling the dark shadows
(Now) Lost in the mountains and wilderness, with no way to go
Show yourself! / O deep, cold palace, the place of my sins
Since you left, this country has fallen into a terrible state / Already long lost and forgotten, as for my home
Hatred, sorrow, and grief accumulate day after day / (Fate) Lonely and wandering, trapped in such a harsh place
Panicking and not knowing where to go, I embark on the treacherous journey ahead / What can I do!
It's time to return!
The steep rocks and mountains withstood the test of time
Thousands of rivers rush rapidly, seemingly swallowing the sky
(But even if) Mountains fall and the earth tremors
How can the evil (which caused all this) be eradicated?
(Fate) Lonely and wandering, trapped in such a harsh place
There is no way out of this miserable generation
The mountains are precipitous and lush, hiding the path that diverged (between you and me)
Recounting how I had lost my way and wandered away from you, engulfed by the shadow of a mountain ridge
Analytical Discussion
"Rage Beneath the Mountains" is particularly significant for its use of "Chuci," an ancient literary form known for its emotive intensity and existential themes. Michael Fuller characterizes "Chuci" as deeply personal and emotive, qualities that are adeptly mirrored in Azhdaha's theme. Fuller notes, "Chuci is notably more emotive and personal than the often rigid and impersonal verses found in earlier works" (Fuller, 2018). This alignment with "Chuci" enhances the character's narrative, portraying Azhdaha's deep-seated resentment and enduring solitude through the ages. The lyrics profoundly reflect the dragon's ancient grudges and the thematic weight of his story, thereby deepening the player's engagement with the character's mythological background.
Moreover, the composition creatively blends traditional orchestral music with modern rock elements, such as electric guitar and electronically distorted Erhu, presenting a unique soundscape that bridges the ancient with the modern. This musical synthesis not only reflects the game’s innovative approach to soundtrack composition but also resonates with the thematic juxtapositions within the game world—where legendary beings and contemporary adventures coexist.
This track’s use of both traditional and modern musical influences exemplifies the game developers' commitment to creating a culturally rich and dynamically engaging gaming experience. Ning Xinlei discusses the broader implications of such fusions in contemporary Chinese arts, suggesting that integrating traditional elements with modern influences "reflects a broader trend of cultural renewal and reinterpretation within contemporary Chinese arts" (Ning, 2012).
Yunjin's Opera: Devastation and Redemption
In the heart of "Genshin Impact's" vibrant cultural panorama, Yunjin's opera "Devastation and Redemption" emerges as a striking testament to the game's innovative spirit. Yunjin, portrayed in-game as a traditional Peking Opera performer with a surprising penchant for rock music, perfectly encapsulates the fusion of the classical and the contemporary. Her performance in this piece reimagines Jingge—a modern adaptation of Peking Opera infused with elements of pop music—illustrating the seamless blend of age-old traditions with the dynamism of modern genres. This musical experiment not only enriches the game's narrative but also broadens its appeal, bridging generational and cultural divides.
Visual of Yunjin
Live Performance of
Devastation and Redemption
Chinese Transcript:
可——叹——
秋鸿折单复难双
痴人痴怨恨迷狂
只因那邪牲祭伏定祸殃
若非巾帼拔剑人皆命丧
凡缘朦朦仙缘滔
天伦散去绛府邀
朱丝缚绝烂柯樵
雪泥鸿迹遥
鹤归不见昔华表
蛛丝枉结魂幡飘
因果红尘渺渺
烟消
《神女劈观》到这里本该接近尾声
但今日我再添一笔——
唱与——诸位——听——
曲高未必人不识
自有知音和清词
红缨猎猎剑流星
直指怒潮洗海清
彼时鹤归
茫茫天地无依靠
孤身离去
今日再会
新朋旧友坐满堂
共聚此时
Official English Translation:
Alas!
Two loving souls by death cruelly parted
In madness and grief, a dark path started
Calamity was drawn, rituals subverted
But by her cold steel was death averted
Mortal ties broken, with the adepti she went
Their abiding place filling paternal bonds rent
To her red strings of binding they sent
And they dwelt long together, content
The crane returned to a home without luster
The cobwebs overgrown, the grave-shrouds a-fluster
But one bond upon her
This world could not muster
Thus does the Divine Damsel's tale duly end
But today a new tale I have to append
Which I shall now tell — if you shall attend
From the world she seems apart
But there are those who know her heart
With crimson spear and flashing brand
To still the raging tides they stand
The crane once returned
And once, she was spurned
She turned, and left alone
Now, she might be found
With friends all around
To whom she is bound — a home
Analytical Discussion
"Devastation and Redemption" serves as more than just a musical piece within "Genshin Impact"; it is a cultural statement, celebrating the continuity and evolution of traditional arts in a modern context. The integration of Jingge elements within Yunjin's performance does not merely preserve the old but revitalizes it, making traditional Peking Opera resonate with today’s global audience. Zheng Yuxi's observations about Jingge using traditional opera techniques while incorporating modern musical styles highlights this innovative encounter, suggesting that these fusions are not just artistic choices but are also deeply rooted in the game's cultural strategy (Zheng, 2024).
Moreover, the incorporation of rock and electronic elements into the composition brings a contemporary edge to the traditional narrative, mirroring the game's setting in a world where ancient myths coexist with dynamic modern forces. This juxtaposition is explored in depth in Ning Xinlei’s analysis of Peking Opera’s modern adaptations, suggesting that such integrations "reflect a broader trend of cultural renewal and reinterpretation within contemporary Chinese arts" (Ning, 2012).
Yunjin's personal background as a traditional opera performer who admires rock music enriches her character development, making her a symbol of cultural hybridity and artistic diversity. This alignment with her personal tastes and professional performances in the game showcases how traditional forms can thrive and adapt, not by shedding their essence, but by embracing new influences. This narrative choice enhances player engagement, offering a deeper connection to Yunjin's character through her music, and by extension, provides a richer understanding of the cultural landscape of "Genshin Impact."
Latin in Genshin Impact: The Voice of the Harbingers
"Latin, with its long history as a liturgical and scholarly language, offers a phonetic palette that composers have long used to add layers of meaning and emotion to their works." - Timothy McGee, Singing Early Music: The Pronunciation of European Languages in the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance (McGee, 1996).
In the world of "Genshin Impact," the use of Latin lyrics distinctively marks the presence of the Harbingers, a group of formidable antagonists. This strategic use of Latin engages players on a level that goes beyond immediate comprehension, inviting those interested to explore and interpret the lyrics within the game's context. This approach not only deepens engagement with the game's world but also mirrors the layered storytelling found in traditional Latin texts, where every phrase could be imbued with multiple meanings and allusions.highlighting its capacity to evoke a profound sense of the past (McGee, 1996). This historical context is pivotal in understanding why Latin was chosen for the game’s soundscape. The language's ceremonial and almost mystical qualities lend an air of timeless gravitas to the characters it represents, particularly the Harbingers. Latin's use in the game is not merely aesthetic; it serves as a gateway into deeper narrative layers. As McGee notes, the pronunciation and use of Latin in early music were meticulously crafted to convey specific cultural and theological concepts, a practice that enriches the auditory experience of "Genshin Impact" by aligning it with these historical undertones. The first track in our exploration, "Wrath of Monoceros Caeli," associated with the character Childe, one of the Harbingers, embodies this thematic and musical strategy.
Tartaglia: Wrath of Monoceros Caeli
"Wrath of Monoceros Caeli" encapsulates Childe's, also known as Tartaglia, dual nature as both a fearsome warrior and a figure entangled in cosmic struggles beyond his control. The lyrics, steeped in Latin, evoke a timeless battle against dark forces, metaphorically aligning Childe's personal ambitions with his role within the Tsaritsa's plans and the broader narrative of the game.
Visual of Tartaglia
Recording of Wrath of Monoceros Caeli
Latin:
lux catius gravi iri
mutatis pius mari
tuta pectus malis
muta deus malis
cavis vincam
cavis vincam
cavis vincam
potis cavis
potis cavis
potis cavis
densa pia
densa pia
densa pia
cavus vincit
cavus vincit
cavus vincit
cavus vincito
English Translation:
The more discerning gaze is to be steered with grave [attention].
Fatefully, you are [all] moved by the sea.
[My] soul [is] gazed upon by evils.
God, remove [me] from evils!
I shall conquer through the Abyss
I shall conquer through the Abyss
I shall conquer through the Abyss
(You become the master of the Abyss)
(You become the master of the Abyss)
(You become the master of the Abyss)
(Crush [the] devout [ones])
(Crush [the] devout [ones])
(Crush [the] devout [ones])
(The Abyss conquers!)
(The Abyss conquers!)
(The Abyss conquers!)
(The Abyss shall conquer!)
Analytical Discussion
The opening lines, "lux catius gravi iri," suggest a narrative of cautious guidance, perhaps referencing Childe's calculated maneuvers within the political intrigues of Teyvat. As the piece progresses to "mutatis pius mari" and "tuta pectus malis," the transformation by the sea and the gaze of evils upon the soul delve deeper into Childe's internal and external conflicts, painting a picture of a character driven by formidable forces both seen and unseen.
The repeated references to the Abyss in lines such as "cavis vincam" and "cavus vincit" underscore the pervasive influence of the Abyss Order in Childe's life, indicating a struggle for power and control that defines much of his narrative. The call to "crush [the] devout [ones]," set against the backdrop of his vow to conquer, suggests a rebellion against established orders, mirroring the Harbingers' broader goal of overturning the divine.
This complex layering of themes, conveyed through the ancient language of Latin, not only heightens the dramatic tension in Childe's storyline but also enriches the player's understanding of the stakes at play. The use of Latin serves as a bridge connecting the player with the game's mythological underpinnings, enhancing the narrative depth and immersing them in the epic scale of the Harbingers' ambitions.
As we continue to explore the use of Latin across other tracks associated with the Harbingers, this thematic exploration will further reveal how language and music coalesce to craft a compelling and immersive narrative experience within "Genshin Impact."
La Signora's Themes: Saltatio Favillae
La Signora, also known as Rosalyne-Kruzchka Lohefalter, embodies a complex character arc in "Genshin Impact," transitioning from a tragic figure consumed by vengeance to a formidable antagonist as the Eighth of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers. Her final battle theme, "Saltatio Favillae," resonates deeply with her backstory and transformation, utilizing Latin lyrics to emphasize her role within the Harbingers and her pursuit of power and revenge. The musical composition intricately blends traditional bel canto soprano singing with the modern sounds like an electric guitar, creating a soundscape that is both haunting and beautiful, mirroring her fiery and tumultuous nature.
The visuals of La Signora
Live Performance of Saltatio Favillae
Latin:
Igni, cinis
Ex ira surget
Vedis, calor
In scaena salto
Venu
Resurgito
Alluceto
In dolore
Illusio
In hoc mundo clades indiges
Votum, dolor
Ex oblivione
In tristitia
Vae victis fortunarum
Vae, ignis tinea fio
Vade retro, ah vanitas
Et omnia vanitas
Nihilum flamma
Visio
Vindicia
Ah senta
Vae victis fortunarum
Vae, ignis tinea fio
Votum, dolor
Vacuum, fatuus
Ignis sentio tragico
Comoeda
English Translation:
Ignite, embers
I rise from the anger
Behold, the heat
On the stage shall I arise
Come
Resurrect
Shine
In the suffering
An illusion
In this world you long for calamities
Vision, suffering
Out of oblivion
In sorrow
Woe to those vanquished by fate
Woe, I shall become a moth of fire
Begone, ah vanity
And all is vanity
Flaming nothingness
Vision
Vengeance
Ah listen
Woe to those vanquished by fate
Woe, I shall become a moth of fire
Vision, suffering
Vacant, foolish
I feel the igniting tragedy
[What a] comedian [I am]
Analytical Discussion
"Saltatio Favillae" intricately portrays La Signora’s transition from her mortal origins to her role as a harbinger through its lyrical content and musical composition. The Latin lyrics convey a narrative of resurrection and transformation, hinting at her rebirth as the Crimson Witch of Flame and her embrace of her new, darker identity. The recurring motifs of fire and transformation in the lyrics such as "Igni, cinis" (Ignite, embers) and "Vae, ignis tinea fio" (Woe, I shall become a moth of fire) symbolize her volatile and destructive nature.
The blending of electric guitar riffs with the classical bel canto technique not only highlights her dramatic flair but also encapsulates the duality of her character—caught between her past and her role in the Fatui. This musical duality enriches the narrative, enhancing the player's experience of La Signora’s complexity as both a character and an antagonist. The soprano's powerful yet melodic voice coupled with the aggressive strains of the guitar creates a juxtaposition that reflects the turmoil and internal conflict that define La Signora.
Scaramouche's Theme: Polumnia Omnia
"Polumnia Omnia," associated with The Balladeer, also known as Scaramouche, intricately reflects his complex origins and tumultuous journey within "Genshin Impact." As the Sixth of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers and a prototype puppet created by Raiden Ei, Scaramouche's character is imbued with themes of creation, abandonment, and seeking purpose. The track uniquely combines Latin and ancient Japanese lyrics, symbolizing his deep connection to Inazuma and his existential struggles. This blending of languages not only highlights his dual heritage but also enhances the narrative depth of his character as he transitions from a puppet to seeking autonomy.
Visual of Scaramouche
Performance of Polumnia Omnia
English Translation:
May the celestial affairs be denied to you
Now a disastrous ruin weighs upon you
Alas, O those who bear a Vision, you are aware of yourselves
(You are aware of yourselves, O those who bear a Vision)
Why did you throw me away on the fifth night?
The arrogant sages overstep a sinful restriction
(The sages are seduced by what is sinful)
The slow and covert necessity of ruin speeds up the pace
(The slow death given by the necessity of ruin speeds up the pace)
Only the one who is eternal is not bound to anything
Do not believe in anything that is a useless decree
(Be scared, watch out which decrees are useless)
Defeated
Why did you throw me away on the fifth night?
Woe to them! The sages forced the idol on an empty, vain throne
(Woe to them and the idol that they cover in adulation, admiration, and honors)
The covert necessity speeds up the pace
(and speeds up the pace of necessity)
I wish I had never been born at all
Latin and Ancient Japanese Lyrics:
Vosmet vetat res coelica
Iam premet letum vastum te
Vae gnari sunt suimet quis in oculis
(Vae gnari estis vestris quis in oculis)
ごやのすゑなぞながされ
Sapientes feroces vetitum per currunt nefas
(Sapientes pelliciuntur in nefas)
tarda leti et necessitas semota corripiet gradum
(tarda leti mors necessitudinis corripiet gradum)
Iugis solum ipsius nihil debet
Credas in nullum qua sunt edicta inutile
(Cave vide qua sunt edicta inutile)
Dominatus
ごやのすゑなぞながされ
Vae eis simulacrum in solio inanis fixere sapientes
(Vae eis cui simulacrum conlaudent mirent augeant)
necessitas semota corripiet gradum
(et necessitudinis corripiet gradum)
Nunquam genitus desiderem
Analytical Discussion
"Polumnia Omnia" serves as a musical encapsulation of Scaramouche's internal and external conflicts. The Latin lyrics evoke themes of destiny and defiance, with phrases like "Vosmet vetat res coelica" and "Iam premet letum vastum te" reflecting his rebellion against fate and the divine entities that have manipulated his existence. The repetition of "Dominatus" underscores his struggle against perceived domination and his quest for autonomy.
The incorporation of ancient Japanese, specifically "ごやのすゑなぞながされ" (Why did you throw me away on the fifth night?), ties back to his origins in Inazuma and his feelings of abandonment by his creator, Raiden Ei. This lyric poignantly questions his purpose and existence, highlighting the emotional depth of his character's backstory.
Arlecchino's Theme: Absolutio Absoluta Absolutissime
"Absolutio Absoluta Absolutissime," the theme for Arlecchino, also known as The Knave, offers a deep dive into her complex character as the Fourth of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers in "Genshin Impact." As the director of the House of the Hearth, Arlecchino's persona is imbued with layers of authority and enigma. Her theme uses Latin lyrics to reflect her multifaceted identity—ranging from a ruthless diplomat to a protective figure seen as a 'Father' by her followers. The song's Latin phrases enrich the narrative, portraying her dual nature and the underlying tensions within her leadership, thereby deepening the player’s engagement with her character's intricate dynamics.
Visual of Arlecchino
Performance of
Absolutio Absoluta Absolutissime
Latin Lyrics:
Quo vadis pater?
Ecce luna rubra orta erat
Noctem exsanguem rubefecit
Nemo nisi innocentes dormire potest
Sors mors est velata
Ac sic somnia servabo liberorum
(Num unam tantum benedictionem habes, pater nostri?)
(Benedicam benedic tibi etiam, pater, somnialiter)
Sors mei finiet etiamsi
(Sors immanis et inanis salubris vanitas)
Haec sors est immanis inanis etiamsi
(Semper velata dissolubilis)
Inane rubeface a luna
(Nemo nisi innocentes dormire potest)
Ecce te nepos excoci sed non quasi argentum elegi
te in patiente camino ut sis paterfamilias eum
Camini spero vos videre lucem novam
(Luce nova)
English Translation:
Where are you going, father?
Lo! A red moon has risen
Reddening the bloodless night
Nobody except the innocents can sleep
Fate is a shrouded death
And this is how I will protect the slumbers of my children
(Is this really the only blessing you have, our father?)
(In my sleep I will bless —and you too bless!— you father, too)
Even though my fate will be fulfilled
(A terrible and vain fate, a benefic lie)
Even though this fate is terrible and vain
(Ever shrouded and fading to nothingness)
Redden it through a vain moon
(Nobody except the innocents can sleep)
Here you are, my heir, I burned away completely, I haven't chosen you as currency
but to be the head of the family in the patient hearth
I hope you all will see the new light of the hearth
(In the new light)
Analytical Discussion
"Absolutio Absoluta Absolutissime" lyrically captures the essence of Arlecchino’s role within the Fatui and her personal conflicts. The song’s opening line, "Quo vadis pater?" (Where are you going, father?), sets a tone of introspection and leadership, questioning her own path as she leads her "children." The imagery of the "red moon" symbolizes looming danger or change, reflecting the constant upheaval in her secretive and manipulative world.
The repeated phrase, "Nemo nisi innocentes dormire potest" (Nobody except the innocents can sleep), highlights her protective yet paradoxical nature towards her charges, contrasting her outward ruthlessness with a deeper, more nurturing intent. The inclusion of parenthetical Latin phrases juxtaposed with their translations like "Sors immanis et inanis salubris vanitas" (A terrible and vain fate, a benefic lie) emphasizes the dualities she navigates between public perception and private intentions.
The musical composition of the track, distinctively crafted by Dimeng Yuan of HoyoMix, known for his expertise in electronic compositions, adds another layer to the narrative. The use of a mezzo-soprano with a notably low vocal range delivers a profound and unique auditory texture that captures Arlecchino's grave and commanding presence. This deep, resonant vocalization is intermittently disrupted by an EDM transition, reflecting her character's outsider status within the game's lore and her tumultuous internal world. This stark contrast in musical styles mirrors the complexities of Arlecchino's character — both as a protector and a formidable Harbinger.
This track's divergence from Yu-Peng Chen’s usual compositions to Dimeng Yuan’s electronic stylings marks a significant thematic shift, aligning with Arlecchino's narrative arc and her unique position in the game's storyline. The electronic elements introduce a sense of modernity and disruption, symbolizing Arlecchino's break from traditional paths and her challenging journey towards self-definition and autonomy within the Fatui hierarchy.
Overall, "Absolutio Absoluta Absolutissime" not only enriches the understanding of Arlecchino's character through its lyrics but also through its innovative musical execution, making it a standout piece in the "Genshin Impact" soundtrack. This track beautifully encapsulates the blending of ancient textual themes with contemporary musical influences, providing a deep, immersive experience that enhances the narrative complexity of the game.
Summary and Reflection on Latin Lyrics in Genshin Impact
After discussing the last Latin-themed song in "Genshin Impact," it becomes evident that the use of Latin is not just a stylistic choice but a deliberate narrative device. The ancient language serves to encapsulate the timeless and often mystical qualities of the characters it portrays, such as the Harbingers. Each Latin lyric, while initially cryptic, is deeply intertwined with the lore and motivations of these characters, offering a richer, more textured understanding upon closer examination.
This method of incorporating Latin into the game’s soundscape allows players to experience a sense of discovery and connection to the broader themes of fate, power, and identity that "Genshin Impact" explores. It reinforces the game's global appeal, bridging past and present, and inviting players from all backgrounds to delve into its richly woven narrative tapestry. Through this linguistic layer, "Genshin Impact" not only entertains but educates, making its world not just a place to explore but also to learn from and reflect upon (McGee, 1996).
French in Genshin Impact: The Lyrical Depths of "La Vaguelette"
Furina's Theme: La Vaguelette
"La Vaguelette," a poignant track from Furina's story quest in "Genshin Impact," beautifully captures the essence of her character's journey. Composed by Dimeng Yuan of HOYO-MiX with lyrics penned by Hani, Hsiang Liu, and Bao, and performed by Cécilia Cara, the song weaves a narrative that parallels the story of The Little Mermaid. This narrative choice reflects Furina's own sacrifices and hidden burdens, mirroring her transition from a look-alike flamboyant Archon to the revealing of her tragic history. Notably, the song is performed in French, evoking the emotive style reminiscent of French musicals like "Les Misérables," drawing a parallel that Grossman and Stephens explore in terms of narrative depth and character development (Grossman and Stephens, 2016). This linguistic choice, coupled with the unique implementation where the dialogue remains in the player's selected language while the song is universally in French, creates a distinctive theatrical experience within the game.
Visual of Furina
Performance of La Vaguelette
English Translation:
If I could only return to the water's embrace
Wouldn't the world be a lovelier place?
Dear Mother, would you be able to forgive
As the dancing water flows, so too we would live
The city it would nourish
And you too, my dear, would flourish
But love alone could be to no avail
Only farewell, I fear, would prevail
Thus are our lives filled with joy and sorrow
I'll be here always, forever and tomorrow
To behold the world's undying beauty
And that shall live on in perpetuity...
French Lyrics:
Ah, si je pouvais vivre dans l'eau
le monde serait-il plus beau ?
Nous pardonneras-tu, ô chère mère ?
L'eau dans son courant fait danser nos vies
Et la cité, elle nourrit
Ainsi que toi, mon doux amour
Non, le grand amour ne suffit pas
Seul un adieu fleurira
C'est notre histoire de vie, douce et amère
Moi, je suis et serai toujours là
à voir le monde et sa beauté
Et ça ne changera jamais, jamais...
Analytical Discussion
"La Vaguelette" intricately conveys Furina's internal conflict and the facade she maintains before revealing her true self. The lyrics, "Ah, si je pouvais vivre dans l'eau, le monde serait-il plus beau?" (If I could only return to the water's embrace, wouldn't the world be a lovelier place?), encapsulate her longing for a simpler, more authentic existence, away from the burdens of her assumed roles. This theme of hidden truth and public persona is further explored in the recurring motif of water, which symbolizes both the concealment and fluidity of identity.
The choice of French for the lyrics not only enriches the auditory experience but also ties into the broader themes of sacrifice and unspoken burdens. Just as the Little Mermaid sacrifices her voice, Furina sacrifices her true identity for the greater good, a narrative poignantly underscored by the emotive power of the French language. The reference to "Les Misérables" through the style of the music and lyrics (Grossman and Stephens, 2016) deepens this connection, drawing parallels between Furina's narrative and the iconic themes of struggle, sacrifice, and redemption found in the classic French story.
Moreover, the delivery of the song in French across all language settings of the game reinforces the universal nature of its themes, making Furina's story accessible and resonant for a global audience. This method of presentation enhances the theatricality of her storyline, setting a stage where the dichotomy between spoken dialogue and sung narrative creates a profound impact, reflecting the dual aspects of Furina's life—both the seen and the unseen.
Conclusion
Global Melodies in Genshin Impact - Unprecedented Musical Narratives
Genshin Impact’s use of diverse linguistic elements within its soundtrack represents a groundbreaking approach in video game music. Similar to the Civilization series, which is celebrated for incorporating global tunes that echo the cultural essence of each civilization (Summers, 2016), Genshin Impact takes a step further by crafting original compositions that draw from a vast array of global musical influences. These compositions not only enhance the game's rich and diverse environments but also advance the storytelling, using the music itself as a narrative device (Kassabian, 2001).
The use of Latin, for instance, though not immediately understood by many players, adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the characters it represents, such as the Harbingers. This choice of language serves as a narrative bridge, offering insights into the characters’ roles and intentions without the need for explicit dialogue or subtitles during battle sequences. This method enriches the gameplay experience by maintaining an immersive atmosphere that captivates the player's attention through musical cues rather than textual explanations.
Moreover, the integration of these soundtracks goes beyond the gaming medium; they have been performed by orchestras worldwide, elevating the compositions from in-game elements to standalone musical masterpieces. This global appreciation highlights the universal appeal and artistic validity of the game’s music, confirming that video game soundtracks can transcend their original contexts to become significant cultural artifacts in their own right.
The scholarly work on video game music, such as that by Tim Summers, supports the idea that these soundtracks are crucial in shaping player experiences and engagement (Summers, 2016). Genshin Impact’s strategic use of music not only supports gameplay but also enhances emotional engagement, creating a memorable experience that resonates with players long after they have finished playing. The tracks are not just background music; they are a vital part of the game’s emotional fabric, designed to evoke specific feelings and responses that align with the narrative moments they accompany.
In conclusion, Genshin Impact’s innovative approach to integrating a diverse soundscape enriches its storytelling and player engagement, setting a new standard for the use of music in video games. The game’s soundtracks, influenced by global music traditions and performed in various languages, contribute to a rich narrative experience that is both immersive and emotionally compelling. These compositions stand as a testament to the power of music in video games, highlighting its ability to transcend cultural and media boundaries to touch audiences worldwide.
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Acknowledgments
Special thanks to the teams at miHoYo and HOYO-MiX, and particularly to the remarkable composer Yu-Peng Chen, whose creative genius has brought the world of "Genshin Impact" to life through its evocative and immersive soundtracks. The global musical influences masterfully woven into each composition not only enhance the gaming experience but also transform these soundtracks into standalone masterpieces celebrated in concert halls worldwide.