Even Though I Love You (사랑했지만)

Ji Chang Wook's song 'Even Though I Love You (사랑했지만)' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a rainy day, symbolizing the melancholic atmosphere that envelops the narrator. The rain, combined with the imagery of dust settling and a voice fading away, sets the stage for a story of love that is deeply felt but ultimately unattainable.

The recurring theme of tears and heartache underscores the depth of the narrator's feelings. The lines '때론 눈물도 흐르겠지 그리움으로' (Sometimes tears will flow from longing) and '때론 가슴도 저리겠지 외로움으로' (Sometimes the heart will ache from loneliness) highlight the pain of loving someone from afar. This emotional distance is further emphasized by the repeated refrain '사랑했지만 그대를 사랑했지만' (I loved you, but), which conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance of the situation.

The song also touches on the desire to be close to the loved one, yet the inevitability of having to leave. The lines '지친 그대 곁에 머물고 싶지만 떠날수 밖에' (I want to stay by your tired side, but I have to leave) reflect the internal conflict of wanting to provide comfort and support, but being unable to do so. This adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, as it shows the narrator's selflessness and the painful decision to step back for the sake of the loved one.

Overall, 'Even Though I Love You' is a beautifully crafted song that delves into the bittersweet nature of unrequited love. Ji Chang Wook's emotive delivery and the evocative lyrics combine to create a powerful and relatable experience for listeners, capturing the essence of longing, heartache, and the difficult choices that love sometimes demands.