Paradise

Eric Nam's song 'Paradise' delves into the complex emotions of feeling trapped in a seemingly perfect but ultimately confining situation. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who has been stuck in a stagnant state for too long, yearning for freedom and a fresh start. The opening lines, 'saejang ane gathin chaero / neomu orae heulleosseo,' suggest a sense of being caught in a rut, with time slipping away unnoticed. This sets the stage for the overarching theme of the song: the struggle to break free from a deceptive paradise.

The metaphor of 'paradise' in the song is particularly poignant. While it initially appears to be a place of eternal happiness, it gradually reveals itself to be an illusion. The lines 'jayuraneun yeolsoen / galsurok meoreojigo' and 'geuryeowassdeon miraen / jeomjeom heuryeojyeoman ga' highlight the growing distance from true freedom and the blurring of once-clear dreams. This sense of disillusionment is further emphasized by the repeated refrain, 'Lost in this paradise,' which underscores the internal conflict between the desire to believe in the paradise and the realization that it is a mirage.

Despite the melancholy tone, the song also carries a message of hope and resilience. The lyrics 'yeogiseo nagado / apeul ttaen apado / himdeul su isseodo / geuraedo tteonallae' reflect a determination to leave the false paradise behind, even if the journey ahead is painful and challenging. The repeated assertion, 'Cause we were born to fly,' serves as a reminder of the inherent potential for growth and transformation. In this way, 'Paradise' is not just a lament for lost dreams but also an anthem for those seeking to reclaim their freedom and pursue their true aspirations.