Awake

BTS's song 'Awake' is a poignant reflection on self-acceptance, the limitations one faces, and the desire to strive for more despite acknowledging those limitations. The lyrics, delivered with emotional depth, express a sense of resignation to the fact that there are things the speaker cannot achieve ('Maybe I, I can never fly'), yet there's a persistent yearning to reach for the stars ('그래도 손 뻗고 싶어 / 달려보고 싶어 조금 더' which translates to 'Still, I want to stretch my hand out / I want to run a little more'). The song captures the internal conflict between accepting one's fate and the innate human desire to fight against it and pursue one's dreams.

The metaphor of not being able to fly like the petals or have wings suggests a recognition of one's own limitations. The speaker is aware that they cannot do certain things as effortlessly as others might, symbolized by the petals that can float and drift with the wind. Despite this, there's a strong will to resist and keep trying ('그래도 발버둥치고 싶어' - 'Still, I want to struggle'). This struggle is not just about achieving dreams but also about facing one's fears and insecurities, as indicated by the lines where the speaker admits to being scared but still holds on to the 'six flowers'—possibly a reference to the other members of BTS.

The chorus, with its repeated affirmations of being 'wide awake' and not crying, emphasizes the theme of resilience. It's a call to face reality head-on, without self-deception or surrender to despair. The song, therefore, resonates with anyone who has ever felt held back by their own limitations but still chooses to fight and move forward. BTS, known for their introspective and motivational lyrics, once again connects with their audience through themes of struggle, perseverance, and the journey towards self-acceptance.