Four Times Around The Sun
NELL
Eternal Longing: A Journey Through Time and Memory
NELL's song "Four Times Around The Sun" is a poignant exploration of enduring love and the pain of separation. The lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil of someone who has been grappling with the memories of a past relationship for an extended period. The phrase "지구가 태양을 네 번 감쌌던" (the Earth has circled the Sun four times) serves as a metaphor for the passage of time, indicating that four years have passed since the relationship ended. Despite this significant amount of time, the protagonist finds themselves unable to escape the gravitational pull of their memories, much like the Earth is bound to the Sun.
The song's imagery is rich with metaphors that convey the depth of the protagonist's sorrow. The memories are described as a "중녁" (magnet), irresistibly drawing their heart back to the lost love. This magnetic pull symbolizes the inescapable nature of their longing and the way these memories dominate their emotional landscape. The repetition of the phrase "벗어날 수가 없어" (I can't escape) underscores the protagonist's sense of entrapment in their own feelings.
The lyrics also touch on the paradox of memory, where the same recollections that bring pain also hold a certain cherished value. The protagonist reflects on how these memories, despite causing immense sadness and loneliness, are an integral part of their emotional existence. The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the recurring question, "왜 그래야만 했어" (Why did it have to be this way?), highlighting the unresolved nature of their grief and the lingering questions about the breakup.
NELL's musical style, known for its emotive and introspective qualities, perfectly complements the lyrical content of "Four Times Around The Sun." The band's ability to blend haunting melodies with deeply personal lyrics creates a powerful listening experience that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love and the passage of time.