eight (feat. IU)

In 'eight (feat. IU),' SUGA of BTS and IU collaborate to create a poignant reflection on youth, memory, and the passage of time. The song opens with a question about happiness, hinting at a sense of disillusionment or a search for contentment. The lyrics convey a feeling of impermanence, as everything comes and goes without warning, leaving the narrator reluctant to love again. This sets the stage for a nostalgic journey through memories that have faded but still hold significant emotional weight.

The imagery of dancing in front of an orange sun without any written words suggests a carefree, timeless moment shared between the narrator and a companion. This scene symbolizes a desire to escape the inevitability of goodbyes and to remain forever young in those beautiful memories. The repetition of 'forever young' underscores a longing to preserve the innocence and joy of youth, even as time marches on. The song's chorus, with its haunting melody, reinforces the idea of clinging to these cherished moments, even if they exist only in dreams.

The metaphor of an island created by the two individuals represents a secluded, personal space where they can relive their memories. The mention of 'forever young' as a sandcastle highlights the fragility of these moments, easily washed away by the tides of time. The song also touches on the difficulty of letting go of these memories, as they continue to hold the narrator captive. Despite the melancholic undertones, there is a sense of solace in knowing that these memories will always be a part of them, offering comfort and a connection to a time when they felt truly alive.

The collaboration between SUGA and IU brings together their unique musical styles, blending SUGA's introspective rap with IU's ethereal vocals. This fusion creates a hauntingly beautiful track that resonates with listeners, evoking a sense of shared nostalgia and the universal desire to hold onto the fleeting moments of youth.