Sculpture (조각품)
(G)I-DLE
The Price of Love: A Deep Dive into (G)I-DLE's 'Sculpture (조각품)'
In '(G)I-DLE's' song 'Sculpture (조각품),' the lyrics delve into the complexities of love and self-sacrifice. The protagonist expresses a desire to be loved intensely, even if it means becoming a 'sculpture' molded by their partner. This metaphor of being a sculpture signifies the willingness to endure pain and change oneself to fit the expectations and desires of the loved one. The repeated phrase 'I'm your sculpture' underscores the extent of this self-alteration and the acceptance of suffering as part of the relationship.
The lyrics also highlight the protagonist's internal conflict and self-awareness. Lines like '내가 잘할게' (I'll do better) and '짧은 머리도 두 번 다시는 안 할게' (I won't cut my hair short again) show a readiness to make personal sacrifices. The protagonist is aware of the unhealthy dynamics but chooses to comply, driven by a deep-seated need for love and validation. This is further emphasized in the lines '나 미치게 사랑받고 싶어' (I want to be loved madly) and '그깟 내가 깎여지는 그 고통쯤' (The pain of being sculpted is okay), which reveal a willingness to endure emotional and physical pain for the sake of love.
The song also touches on themes of identity and self-worth. The protagonist questions their happiness and the authenticity of their feelings, as seen in '난 행복한 게 맞아' (Am I really happy?) and '너의 사랑받으니 죽도록 행복한 거겠지' (I must be happy because I'm loved by you). This internal dialogue reflects the struggle between maintaining one's identity and the desire to be loved. The final lines, '다 깎여버린 온몸에 금이 가도' (Even if my whole body is chipped away) and '널 잃는 것보다 날 잃는 게 쉬울 것 같아' (Losing myself is easier than losing you), poignantly capture the ultimate sacrifice of self for the sake of preserving the relationship.