Here are the two translated versions of Shinuchi Miyamoto's Caged Bird which were used in
Episode 24 of DNAngel. The first is the actual translation provided from the subtitles of the DVD; the second version is the official English translation of the actual song.
Version 1
How high must I fly
Until I cannot see you anymore?
If you hold one person
You can't know what will happen
I want to watch it forever
I will never be able to forget, so
There isn't even a way
I simply look up at the sky
Like a small bird in my face
I searched for a window
I searched without a lead…
I want to see you right now
Because I love you
Although I am so scared that I'll hurt you, I want to run away
Even if my wings are stolen
You will always be the most important person
Version 2
How high do I fly
Before you, who are distant and far, become invisible?
If I avert my eyes, I might feel at ease
But I want to always gaze at you from somewhere
Because I can't forget you
At my wits' end, I'm only looking up at the sky
Exactly like a little bird inside a cage
I'm searching for a window and wandering aimlessly
I want to see you immediately, because I love you
I fear getting hurt and I want to run away, but…
Even if my wings are trapped by invisible shackles
Nevertheless, you're such a precious person to me that it's sad
Discussion: The two versions are very similar but there is some deviation. The first version is more existential and focuses on any given person that has had a profound (and not necessarily romantic) impact on the individual. The moral is that no matter how much time passes and circumstances change that person will still be important to you. The second version seems to focus more on romance, specifically unrequited romance. One is afraid to express their feelings and so they do not and are always left with the one-sided wondering of "Are my feelings returned?" Solace is sought from this in their affection for the one they care for; which only creates a vicious cycle where the precious person is the both the source of the problem and the cure.
I am unsure of which set of lyrics is more accurate, I am only certain that Caged Bird is a well executed performance that touches on the emotions of the human condition. On a personal level I prefer the first version though I would like to hear what others think. Feel free to post what version you prefer and why.