To Be Or Not To Be

ONEUS's song 'To Be Or Not To Be' delves into the emotional turmoil and existential crisis that follows a painful breakup. The lyrics vividly describe the protagonist's struggle to breathe and live without their significant other, highlighting the depth of their grief and longing. The recurring phrase 'To be or not to be' echoes Shakespeare's Hamlet, emphasizing the internal conflict between choosing to live with the pain or to metaphorically 'die' by erasing the memories of the lost love.

The song's narrative is filled with regret and reflection, as the protagonist wishes they could turn back time to before they met their lover. This desire to undo the past underscores the intensity of their sorrow and the weight of their regret. The lyrics also touch on the universal nature of breakups, suggesting that everyone experiences similar heartache, yet each person's pain feels uniquely unbearable. The metaphor of a 'dead or alive' choice further illustrates the protagonist's struggle to move on, as they feel trapped between holding onto the past and letting go.

Musically, ONEUS combines powerful vocals with a dramatic instrumental backdrop, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics. The song's structure, with its repetitive chorus and escalating intensity, mirrors the cyclical nature of the protagonist's thoughts and feelings. The use of metaphors, such as 'my heart is dead' and 'tears of blood,' adds a poetic layer to the narrative, making the listener feel the depth of the protagonist's despair. Ultimately, 'To Be Or Not To Be' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the difficult choices we face in the aftermath of heartbreak.