As the first entry in the Zelda series to feature a soundtrack performed by a live orchestra, Skyward Sword has some truly outstanding music. From the lilting woodwinds and cheerful mandolin that follow you through Skyloft to the heavy, menacing organ that signals Ghirahim’s arrival, each track is perfectly arranged to suit the personality of the character or place it represents. But if I had to choose the one piece that speaks to me more than any other, it would have to be “Fi’s Theme.” The soaring flute, sharply plucked strings, and haunting bells flow beautifully together to accompany the mysterious, graceful entity so rigidly bound by logic and duty. From the first moment I heard this melody, I felt a strong connection to Fi and wanted to follow her on her journey of personal growth.
That’s why the ending of Skyward Sword hit me particularly hard, even though I knew how Fi’s story would inevitably unfold. “Fi’s Gratitude,” a slower piano rendition of her theme, paints a bittersweet picture of a spirit stoically committing herself to an eternity of servitude within the Master Sword, thankful for the unique bond she was able to forge with Link throughout their short journey. While this is, objectively, an appropriate conclusion for a character like Fi, I can’t help but feel dysphoric whenever I think about her ultimate fate. Will this wise, dignified spirit ever have a chance at freedom? Will she ever be allowed to rest peacefully, knowing that her job is finished?
Well, thanks to a wonderful, independent musician known as Julia Henderson, I can now imagine a truly happy ending for the maiden born of the Goddess Sword. A multi-faceted instrumentalist and singer, Henderson has composed many spectacular arrangements of popular video game songs, including a number of selections from the Zelda series. Her talent is immeasurable when it comes to the many instruments she plays, but the most noteworthy aspect of her music is the way she utilizes her voice, building beautiful choral harmonies that send chills down the spine and bring tears to the eyes. And her rendition of “Fi’s Theme” is no exception.
For the first minute of the arrangement, Henderson plays a very slow, gentle version of the song on piano. As the ethereal notes linger, I can almost feel the cool, still air of the Sealed Temple as a beam of golden sunlight breaks through the darkness. Then the amazing choir joins in, complemented by the airy tones of a flute, and a breeze so fresh and sweet begins to swirl through the temple. The tempo increases as the emotional intensity deepens, with more vibrant piano playing and even richer choral harmonies. As I imagine stepping into the pool of sunlight and feeling the warmth of the Goddess Hylia’s blessings, the music reaches its climax with a truly divine flute performance. And finally, the feeling of exaltation fades into quiet contentedness as the song closes on a subdued yet hopeful note.
While listening to this version of the song, I can clearly picture Hyrule in the distant future, having permanently eradicated Calamity Ganon at long last. Assured that the world can now know peace forevermore, the heroes decide to mark the occasion by doing the one thing they never thought would be possible: destroying the Master Sword. After all, they no longer need the Blade of Evil’s Bane, so what better way to usher in an era of tranquility than to lay the sword to eternal rest? As the blade shatters, Fi’s spirit is released, free after thousands of years of dedicated service. Now she has the chance to ascend to the heavens and reunite with all the heroes she journeyed alongside, especially the sweet Skyloftian who started it all.
I know that this scenario will likely never play out in the Zelda series, but it’s the outcome I desire for Fi, as well as for the entire kingdom of Hyrule. All those who have made sacrifices to protect their land deserve a happy ending, and hopefully, the day will come when they can all rejoice in knowing that Hyrule is finally at peace.
