Like a Man

Outsider's song 'Like a Man' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and inner conflict experienced by someone dealing with heartbreak and betrayal. The repetitive lines, 'go tong seul peum jeol mang kka ji do mo du ne ge ro da jul ge,' which translate to 'I will give you all the pain, sorrow, and despair,' emphasize the overwhelming burden of negative emotions the protagonist is willing to bear. This repetition underscores the intensity of the feelings and the depth of the emotional struggle.

The lyrics also highlight the societal expectations of masculinity, as seen in the lines 'nam ja dap ge ju meog eur kkwag baby don't cry!' which translates to 'like a man, clench your fist, baby don't cry!' This reflects the pressure on men to suppress their emotions and maintain a stoic facade, even in the face of deep emotional pain. The protagonist's struggle to adhere to these expectations while dealing with his own vulnerability is a central theme of the song.

Furthermore, the song addresses the theme of betrayal, with the repeated accusations of 'liar, liar!' directed at the person who has caused the protagonist's pain. This betrayal has left a lasting impact, as evidenced by the lines 'nun mur eur gam chu go mal haess eo su cheon beon eur mam eu ro ba raess eo,' meaning 'I held back my tears and wished a thousand times.' The protagonist's repeated attempts to hold back tears and the lingering anger and sadness highlight the enduring effects of betrayal and the difficulty of moving on.

Overall, 'Like a Man' by Outsider is a poignant exploration of the complexities of emotions, societal expectations, and the lasting impact of betrayal. The song's raw and honest portrayal of these themes resonates deeply with listeners, offering a powerful reflection on the human experience.