INTRO. KWON JI YONG (Middle Fingers-Up)
G-DRAGON
Defiance and Identity: G-Dragon's Anthem of Rebellion
G-Dragon's song "INTRO. KWON JI YONG (Middle Fingers-Up)" is a bold declaration of defiance and self-assertion. The lyrics are a mix of Korean and English, reflecting G-Dragon's global influence and his roots in South Korea. The repeated gesture of raising the middle finger is a universal symbol of rebellion and non-conformity, which sets the tone for the entire song. G-Dragon uses this gesture to reject societal norms and expectations, emphasizing his individuality and resistance to being controlled or judged by others.
The song delves into the complexities of fame and the loss of personal privacy. G-Dragon mentions the constant scrutiny he faces, with references to social media and the invasive nature of public attention. Lines like "톡 알림 lock, SNS도 비공개" (Locking notifications, making SNS private) highlight his desire to protect his personal space amidst the chaos of celebrity life. The lyrics also touch on the superficiality of relationships in the entertainment industry, where genuine connections are rare, and interactions are often transactional.
Cultural references are abundant in the song, from nods to traditional Korean values to modern-day societal issues. G-Dragon critiques the so-called 'land of etiquette' (동방 no 예의지국) and questions the authenticity of those around him. He also addresses the mental strain of living in such a high-pressure environment, with lines like "멘탈붕괴 feel 잡아" (Mental breakdown, get a grip). The song's aggressive tone and unapologetic language serve as a cathartic release for G-Dragon, allowing him to express his frustrations and assert his identity in a world that constantly tries to define him.