XI (feat. Lee Hi)

In 'XI,' CODE KUNST and Lee Hi delve into the complex and often contradictory nature of love. The song opens with a stark declaration: 'Love is never like the movies.' This sets the tone for a realistic exploration of love's imperfections. The lyrics describe love as something that never truly ends, despite its ups and downs. The metaphor of love being like a pack of cigarettes—something that can kill you but is still needed—captures the addictive and sometimes destructive nature of romantic relationships.

The recurring theme of 'bittersweet love' underscores the duality of love's pleasure and pain. The repetition of 'Bittersweet o love' emphasizes that every love story has its moments of joy and sorrow. The lyrics 'We hurt we love' encapsulate this duality, suggesting that pain and love are intertwined. The song also touches on societal perceptions, with lines like 'Callin' me a bitch, I said that I'm proud of it,' indicating a defiance against judgment and a willingness to embrace one's true self, flaws and all.

Cultural references add another layer to the song. The mention of 'John Wayne' and 'fireworks' evokes images of classic romance and fleeting beauty, respectively. These references serve to romanticize the idea of love while acknowledging its transient nature. The song concludes with a sense of resignation and acceptance, recognizing that while love can be painful and imperfect, it is also an essential part of the human experience. The final lines, 'da aneunde sseuge namneun i kkeut mat do,' suggest a deep understanding and acceptance of love's complexities, making 'XI' a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of love.