4am

IU's song '4am' delves into the introspective and often lonely hours of the early morning, capturing the essence of solitude and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person caught in the liminal space between night and day, where the distinction between yesterday, today, and tomorrow blurs. This time of night, often associated with deep thoughts and existential musings, is portrayed through the recurring motif of rain, which adds a melancholic yet soothing backdrop to the narrative.

The song's chorus, '4am rain again,' emphasizes the cyclical nature of these moments, where the protagonist finds themselves repeatedly in the same state of mind. The rain serves as a metaphor for the continuous flow of thoughts and emotions that seem to have no end. The melody, described as 'moist' and the beat as 'dizzying,' reflects the confusion and the overwhelming nature of these thoughts. The protagonist hums without lyrics, suggesting a sense of aimlessness and the inability to articulate their feelings fully.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's sense of isolation becomes more pronounced. The imagery of counting car lights and feeling like the only person in the world underscores the depth of their loneliness. The line 'I just sing for me the lullaby' indicates a self-soothing attempt to find comfort in their own company. The recurring idea that everything will be forgotten once the sun rises suggests a temporary escape from these heavy thoughts, only for them to return again the next night. IU's '4am' beautifully captures the quiet, introspective moments that many experience but rarely articulate, making it a poignant reflection on solitude and the passage of time.