Tell Me What To Do

SHINee's 'Tell Me What To Do' delves into the complexities of a relationship on the brink of collapse. The repeated plea, 'Tell me what to do,' underscores a sense of desperation and confusion. The lyrics paint a picture of two individuals who have grown distant, struggling to communicate and understand each other. The line '요즘 난 I don’t know, I don’t know you' (These days, I don’t know, I don’t know you) highlights the emotional disconnect that has developed over time.

The song explores themes of regret and longing for reconciliation. The lyrics '극적인 전개도 없는 연인' (A relationship without dramatic developments) and '끝내지 않아도 이미 끝난' (Even if we don’t end it, it’s already over) suggest a relationship that has lost its spark and direction. Despite this, there is a yearning to mend the broken bond, as seen in the lines '내가 먼저 다가가 막다른 길 끝에서 흘린 눈물에 다 젖어버린 두 볼을 닦아주고 물어볼래' (I’ll approach you first, at the end of a dead-end road, I’ll wipe your tear-stained cheeks and ask).

The song also touches on the pain caused by careless words and actions. The lyrics '무심했던 아픈 말 깊은 상처를 남긴 날' (The indifferent, hurtful words that left deep scars) reflect the emotional wounds inflicted during the relationship. Yet, there is a desire to move past these hurts and find a way back to each other. The bridge, featuring lines like 'The one for me 난 모르지만 그 약속을 계속 조르지 우리' (I don’t know if you’re the one for me, but we keep clinging to that promise), encapsulates the uncertainty and hope that coexist in the relationship.

'Tell Me What To Do' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the struggle to find clarity in the midst of emotional turmoil. SHINee's heartfelt delivery and the song's introspective lyrics resonate deeply with anyone who has faced similar challenges in their relationships.