U (feat. Stray Kids)

In "U (feat. Stray Kids)," Tablo crafts a poignant narrative about the consuming nature of love and longing. The lyrics reveal a deep emotional connection, where the protagonist's thoughts are dominated by the presence of a significant other. This constant preoccupation is both a source of joy and heartache, as the protagonist feels a responsibility to protect and cherish this person. The imagery of staying up all night and the metaphor of pushing the sun to rise illustrate the lengths one would go to for love, emphasizing a do-or-die mentality.

The song delves into the theme of nostalgia and the struggle to move on from past memories. The lyrics, "눈물은 내 기억을 겨눠," suggest that tears are a reminder of past moments, anchoring the protagonist in a time that has already passed. Despite attempts to forget and move forward, the protagonist finds themselves repeatedly drawn back to the memories of their loved one. This cyclical nature of longing is further highlighted by the recurring phrase "going back to you," underscoring the inescapable pull of love.

Tablo, known for his introspective and poetic lyricism, collaborates with Stray Kids to create a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love. The song touches on themes of separation anxiety and the difficulty of expressing deep emotions, as seen in the lines about a "tree-less forest" and "barely surviving." Ultimately, "U" is a testament to the enduring power of love, where the protagonist's life and love are inextricably linked to the presence of their beloved, even to the point of declaring they would die without them.