Gradation (그라데이션)

In 'Gradation (그라데이션),' 10CM explores the nuanced and evolving emotions of love and infatuation. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who finds themselves increasingly captivated by someone, to the point where their thoughts and feelings are consumed by this growing affection. The night becomes longer and deeper, symbolizing the sleepless nights spent thinking about the object of their affection. The singer wishes that the other person could feel the same indescribable emotions, highlighting the longing for mutual recognition and connection.

The metaphor of ink staining a white garment is particularly striking. It represents how the presence of the beloved has left an indelible mark on the singer's life, one that cannot be easily erased. This imagery is further enriched by the description of the 'sweet colors' gradually permeating the singer's consciousness, making it impossible to recognize their own feelings until they are fully immersed. The overflowing heart, unable to contain its emotions, signifies the intensity and inevitability of these feelings, culminating in the resolve to finally speak to the beloved the next day.

Despite the singer's insecurities about expressing their feelings through song, they are determined to convey their emotions. The lyrics reflect a sense of vulnerability and the fear of not being able to communicate effectively. Yet, the persistent imagery of sweet colors and the beloved's face filling the room like a rainbow suggests a hopeful and optimistic outlook. The song captures the bittersweet nature of unspoken love, the anticipation of a new beginning, and the courage to take that first step towards expressing one's true feelings.