ROCK (돌)
Stray Kids
Finding Clarity in a Confusing World: Stray Kids' 'ROCK (돌)'
Stray Kids' song 'ROCK (돌)' delves into the struggles of self-identity and the overwhelming confusion that often accompanies it. The lyrics express a desire to escape the constant questioning and uncertainty of life, opting instead for the simplicity and solidity of being a rock. This metaphor of a rock represents a state of unchanging certainty and self-awareness, contrasting sharply with the chaotic and often frustrating search for answers in a complex world.
The song opens with a declaration of self-awareness, yet quickly shifts to a sense of frustration and confusion. The repeated phrase '바위 바위 바위 rock' (rock, rock, rock) serves as a mantra, emphasizing the longing for stability and clarity. The lyrics describe a cycle of repetitive thoughts and actions, highlighting the difficulty of finding definitive answers. This is further illustrated by the lines '고민 고민 또 소리소문없이 꼬리 꼬리만 쫓아가다 보면 허탕 치고 다시 나 자신의 힌트를 찾지' (worrying and chasing after rumors, only to end up empty-handed and searching for clues about oneself again).
The chorus, with its catchy 'La la la la la' refrain, underscores the idea that sometimes it's better to do nothing than to do something half-heartedly. This sentiment is echoed in the lines '어설플 바엔 안 하는 게 낫지' (if it's going to be clumsy, it's better not to do it). The song suggests that in a world filled with uncertainties and pressures, finding peace in simplicity and self-acceptance can be more fulfilling than constantly striving for answers. The repeated desire to 'be a rock' symbolizes a wish for a state of being where one is free from the burdens of overthinking and societal expectations.