Before The Sun Sets

Eric Nam's 'Before The Sun Sets' is a poignant exploration of longing, loss, and the passage of time. The song opens with the realization that a seemingly ordinary farewell was, in fact, the last goodbye. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the protagonist grapples with the absence of a loved one. The imagery of a fading photograph symbolizes the fading memories and the enduring pain of separation.

The recurring theme of waiting is central to the song. The protagonist clings to promises and hopes, even though the person they are waiting for never arrives. This sense of waiting is underscored by the repetition of the phrase '해가 지기 전에' (before the sun sets), which serves as a metaphor for the limited time they have to reunite or find closure. The setting sun symbolizes the end of a day, and metaphorically, the end of hope or life itself.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on the meaning of life and existence. The act of taking a deep breath and listening to one's heartbeat is a moment of introspection, suggesting that life is fleeting and precious. Despite the loneliness and the passage of time, the protagonist continues to pray and hold on to the last words left by their loved one, which remain deeply embedded in their heart. This song beautifully captures the universal human experience of love, loss, and the enduring hope that keeps us going, even in the darkest times.