Without You

SEVENTEEN's song 'Without You' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and existential dread that follows a significant separation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's struggle to cope with the absence of a loved one. The opening lines, '너 없이 힘들었어 두려웠어 / 혼자라는 생각에 무서웠어' (It was hard without you, I was scared / The thought of being alone was terrifying), set the tone for the song, highlighting the fear and loneliness that accompany the loss. The protagonist admits to wasting time and being unaware of its passage, indicating a state of emotional paralysis and disorientation.

The chorus reveals a desperate plea for the loved one to return, '돌아와줘 들을 준비 다 됐어 / 어디서라도 내 말 들린다면' (Come back, I'm ready to listen / If you can hear me from anywhere). This plea is underscored by the pain of being left without any closure, as the loved one departed without a word or a proper goodbye. The protagonist's attempts to move on are futile, as they are constantly reminded of the absence, leading to a sense of helplessness and despair. The repeated phrase '변해볼까 해' (I think I'll change) signifies a desire for transformation, perhaps as a means to cope with the pain or to become someone who can better handle such emotional challenges.

The song also touches on the theme of self-worth and the impact of the loved one's absence on the protagonist's sense of identity. The lines '쓰러져가는 망가져가는 / 난 이제 중요치 않아' (Falling apart, breaking down / I don't matter anymore) reflect a deep sense of worthlessness and the struggle to find meaning without the other person. The protagonist's acknowledgment that they might 'go crazy' or that it might be easier to lose their mind ('이렇다 나 돌아 버릴지도 몰라 / 차라리 그게 더 맘 편할 것 같아') further emphasizes the depth of their emotional pain. Ultimately, 'Without You' is a poignant exploration of the agony of separation, the longing for reunion, and the difficult journey towards self-transformation and healing.