"One Pencil": The Emotion and Evaluation of NHK's "Minna no Uta"

"One Pencil" - The History and Appeal of Minna no Uta

"One Pencil" is a short two-minute animated work that was broadcast on NHK Educational TV (now NHK E-Tele) in October 1967. This work was produced as part of NHK's long-running program "Minna no Uta" and became a song beloved by children. Below, we will delve deeper into the details and appeal of this work.

Overview

"One Pencil" is an animation created by Shinta Naga and the ID Group. The original media is listed as "Other", which indicates that it is one of the original songs on "Minna no Uta". It was broadcast in October 1967, with only one episode. The copyright is held by NHK.

Story and Themes

"One Pencil" is a work that contains a simple yet profound message. The story depicts how even one pencil can be used to draw many different things. The work aims to teach children the importance of creativity, and expresses the infinite possibilities that can be achieved with just one pencil.

The animation shows a pencil drawing various pictures one after another. It starts with simple lines and gradually becomes more complex. Through this process, the animation conveys to children the message that "it takes one step to start something."

Music and lyrics

The music of "One Pencil" is characterized by a simple and familiar melody. The lyrics specifically list various things that can be drawn with the power of a pencil. For example, "With one pencil, you can draw a house, a car, and an animal." Through these lyrics, the song teaches children about the "infinite possibilities of creativity."

The lyrics are written in words that children can easily understand, and the rhythm is easy to remember, so the song has become popular among children. In addition, the lyrics are visually expressed through animation, making it a very easy-to-understand work for viewers.

Animation Techniques and Expressions

The animation for "One Pencil" is a testament to the technical prowess of Shinta Naga and the ID Group. It starts with simple line drawings and gradually evolves into more complex drawings, all of which are beautifully depicted. The animation has the warmth of hand-drawn art, but also a sophisticated expression that is in keeping with modern animation techniques.

In particular, the scene where the picture drawn by the pencil changes one after another has a great visual impact. In this scene, the movement of the pencil and the change in the picture are synchronized, leaving a strong impression on the viewer. The colors used are simple yet effective, expressing a sense of color that even children can enjoy.

Social impact and evaluation

"One Pencil" has been loved by children since it was first broadcast. In particular, the theme of teaching the importance of creativity was highly praised by many educators and parents. This work not only taught children the "first step to starting something", but also helped them develop the "ability to think for themselves".

This song is also one of the most popular songs on "Minna no Uta," and has been rebroadcast and released on DVD. It can still be viewed online today, and continues to be loved by many people. The influence of this song has spread not only to children, but also to adults, and it has given many people a new awareness of the importance of creativity.

Related works and recommendations

For those who enjoyed "One Pencil," we also recommend the following works from the "Minna no Uta" series.

• "Elephant" - This song is also loved by children for its simple lyrics and animation. The main character is an elephant, and it teaches us the importance of friends.
• "Pata Pata Mama" - A song that depicts the daily life of a busy mother, conveying a mother's love to her children. The animation is humorous and enjoyable.
• "Grandpa's Tree" - A work that teaches the importance of nature, featuring beautiful animation and a touching story. A song that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Like "One Pencil," these works are also intended to convey important messages to children. Please be sure to watch them.

summary

"One Pencil" is one of the most memorable songs from the "Minna no Uta" program that was broadcast in 1967. Although it is a short animation of just two minutes, it contains a profound message that teaches the importance of creativity. The simple lyrics and beautiful animation have made it a work that is loved not only by children but also by adults.

This work not only teaches children "the first step to starting something new," but also fosters the "ability to think for oneself." It continues to be loved by many people today, and its influence is immeasurable. Experience the infinite possibilities of creativity through "One Pencil."