Condolences to a popular songwriter

A sudden piece of sad news captured my mind. The newspaper’s obituary column reported the passing of an old acquaintance or sensei from whom I learnt songwriting at one time in my youth. A very long time had passed since I left him. 
 
He was very rigorous in writing but so tender in his usual activities. 
 
Lots of unforgettable pleasant company, several precious memories, and a few bitter moments. 
 
Now the news, the death of Okamoto Osami is disclosed to the public in a relatively expanded column in a major newspaper. 
 
Some words of a song will not only stay in one’s mind, but will bring critical perspective to people’s thinking and feelings. 
 
I still remember, among many memories, a phrase from ‘Erimo Misaki’ or Cape Erimo; Erimo no haru ha nanimo-nai haru desu, or nothing there in Spring in Erimo. 
 
For a long time after I, who at that time was young, first heard the song and phrase, I could neither realize the meaning nor feel anything in it agreeable to my taste. 
 
In later days my heart was captured by the real meaning of Mr. Okamoto’s lyrics. 
 
It weighs even now in my brain. 
 
He was a man of uncompromising attitude, dandyish style, and tenderness. 
 
I think I will have no opportunity to offer incense sticks, because the newspaper gives no details on a schedule or venue. It’s easy for me to guess that he would not have wanted it. 
 
Okamoto sensei, please allow me to express my condolences now to you here. 
 
You will live forever in my mind.