Life Goes On
BTS
Embracing Resilience in BTS's 'Life Goes On'
BTS's song 'Life Goes On' is a poignant reflection on the unexpected changes and challenges that life presents, particularly in the context of the global pandemic that began in 2020. The lyrics, primarily in Korean, convey a message of resilience and hope amidst uncertainty and upheaval. The song was released as part of their album 'BE', which was heavily influenced by the members' experiences during the COVID-19 crisis.
The opening lines of 'Life Goes On' describe a world that has suddenly come to a halt without warning, symbolizing the abrupt changes that the pandemic brought to everyday life. The imagery of erased footsteps and the personification of time moving on without them evoke feelings of isolation and the sense of being left behind. Despite the melancholy, the song encourages listeners to keep moving forward, even when the end is not in sight and the path forward is unclear. The metaphor of the rain and the dark clouds represents ongoing struggles, but the lyrics suggest outrunning them, indicating a determination to overcome adversity.
The chorus, with its repeated phrases 'Like an echo in the forest' and 'Like an arrow in the blue sky', reinforces the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of moving on. The echo and the arrow symbolize actions and moments that will inevitably return or continue, just as the days do. BTS offers comfort through their music, reminding us that despite the world changing, the connections between people remain strong. The song ends on a note of remembrance, suggesting that the memories of overcoming past challenges will serve as a foundation for facing the future. 'Life Goes On' is a testament to the human spirit's ability to persist and find light even in the darkest times, and BTS delivers this message with their characteristic blend of emotive vocals and introspective lyrics.