One thing I love about The Legend of Zelda is how it takes elements from its previous games and bring new life to it. Classic characters, locations, and songs always seem to make their way into future installments, bringing a sense of nostalgia and familiarity with whatever new world we’re set to explore. It’s no surprise at this point that the “Fairy Fountain Theme” is likely to be in each new game in one way or another, but it’s fascinating to me how each variation of the song sounds entirely different than the other. Phantom Hourglass gives us two new covers of the song revolving around one fairy in particular: Ciela.
Ciela is Link’s adorable sidekick who follows and guides him through various trials, acting as a navigator for him (and a cursor for us). She’s cute, plucky, and has a big personality for a little fairy, thus she is given a playful, upbeat rendition of the “Fairy Fountain Theme” as her personal theme song. Playful woodwinds take the lead on the melody while bouncing brass and bass accompanies them. The tune perfectly describes her personality without having to say a word.
Sadly, most partnerships in Zelda must come to an end near the finale of the game. When it is revealed that she is the Spirit of Courage, it is inevitable that Ciela would not be able to remain with Link forever. At the end of Link’s journey, she and her siblings leave with the Ocean King, but not without saying goodbye. As she gives a final farewell to both Link and Linebeck, another variant of the “Fairy Fountain Theme” is played, this time with a more melancholy tone.
A slow, solo guitar brings the melody to a start, keeping things simple and sullen. In the second loop through a flute and music box is introduced, going off the usual melody we are so familiar with. It plays a bittersweet tune that reminds us of the times we’ve shared with our fairy companion before coming full circle and ending on the final notes of the classic “Fairy Fountain Theme” in perfect harmony with the guitar.
What I think I love most about “Ciela’s Theme” and “Ciela’s Parting Words” are how they can tell so much about the character and the story without needing visuals or words. The composers of The Legend of Zelda have always been good at that, but it especially shows here. While Phantom Hourglass has personally never been a favorite of mine in terms of gameplay, I absolutely adore the stories it has to share, and Ciela’s is no exception. Even if you haven’t played the game up until this point (in which case, sorry about the spoilers, I guess), you’ll know everything you need to just by listening to these great songs.
