Like
BTS
The Digital Heartache of BTS's 'Like'
BTS's song 'Like' delves into the emotional turmoil of seeing an ex-partner move on in the digital age. The lyrics express the protagonist's struggle with the desire to be loved and the pain of witnessing their former lover's life through social media. The repeated line 'Don't wanna be fool, wanna be cool, wanna be loved' encapsulates the internal conflict between wanting to appear unaffected and the yearning for the same love they once shared with their ex.
The song's narrative unfolds through the protagonist's perspective, who is obsessively checking their ex's social media updates, feeling a mix of jealousy and longing. The mention of 'liking' every picture and the frustration over the inability to express dislike on social media platforms highlights the modern dilemma of being constantly reminded of what one has lost. The lyrics 'Oh, pretty woman' suggest that despite the breakup, the protagonist still finds their ex attractive, adding to the complexity of their emotions.
BTS, known for their ability to capture the nuances of young love and heartbreak, uses 'Like' to comment on the contemporary experience of post-breakup reality in a world dominated by online interactions. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet task of observing an ex-partner's life from afar, through the curated lens of social media, while grappling with the remnants of affection and the need for personal closure.