The Hydra
LE SSERAFIM
Rising Stronger: The Resilience of LE SSERAFIM in 'The Hydra'
LE SSERAFIM's song 'The Hydra' is a powerful anthem of resilience and strength. The lyrics challenge the listener's perception of fragility, with the repeated question, 'Do you think I’m fragile?' This rhetorical question sets the tone for the song, as the artists invite others to test their strength by attempting to break them. The use of multiple languages—Korean, Japanese, and English—adds a global dimension to the message, emphasizing that resilience is a universal trait.
The metaphor of the Hydra, a mythical creature that grows back two heads for every one that is cut off, is central to the song's theme. The lyrics 'watashi no kubi o kittemite' (try cutting my neck) and '어디 한번 날 부숴봐' (try breaking me) directly reference this myth, suggesting that any attempt to destroy them will only make them stronger. This is further reinforced by the repeated declaration, 'I am antifragile,' a term popularized by author Nassim Nicholas Taleb to describe systems that become stronger when exposed to stressors.
The song also touches on the idea of learning and growth through adversity. Lines like 'I'm not afraid of storms, for I'm learning how to sail my ship' highlight the importance of facing challenges head-on and using them as opportunities for self-improvement. The imagery of dancing while falling ('추락하며 추는 춤') and not hiding mistakes ('misu ya shippai o kakusanai') underscores the message that true strength comes from embracing one's vulnerabilities and failures. 'The Hydra' is a celebration of the indomitable spirit, encouraging listeners to rise stronger from every setback.