Time After Time (원) (feat. BoA & WENDY)

In 'Time After Time (원),' NINGNING of aespa, featuring BoA and WENDY, delves into the complexities of love and the cyclical nature of emotions. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that seems to be stuck in an endless loop, much like the hands of a clock tracing the same path over and over. The repetition of 'Time after time' emphasizes the relentless nature of this cycle, where the protagonist finds themselves continually drawn back to their lover, despite the pain and disappointment that often accompany their feelings.

The metaphor of a clock and the circular motion it represents is central to the song's theme. NINGNING sings about how love can be both beautiful and cruel, highlighting the duality of emotions that come with deep affection. The lyrics 'You make me smile, You make me cry' encapsulate this perfectly, showing how the same person can bring immense joy and profound sadness. This duality is further explored through the imagery of changing seasons, symbolizing the ever-evolving nature of emotions and relationships.

Culturally, the song taps into a universal experience of love's trials and tribulations. The idea that love can be a 'cruel' force that leads to disappointment as much as it does to happiness is a theme that resonates across different cultures and experiences. The collaboration with BoA and WENDY adds layers of vocal depth and emotional resonance, making the song a poignant exploration of love's enduring and often painful cycle. The repeated phrase 'Time after time' serves as a reminder of the inevitability of these emotional cycles, suggesting that no matter how much time passes, some feelings remain constant, endlessly looping back to where they began.