BEHIND THE MASK

TWICE's song 'BEHIND THE MASK' delves into the complex emotions of longing and heartache following a breakup. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the aftermath of a relationship, where the protagonist is left grappling with the pain of separation. The opening lines, '뱉은 숨을 마신 뒤 / 한숨만 남겨뒀지,' suggest a sense of suffocation and despair, as if the very act of breathing has become burdensome without the presence of the loved one. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which oscillates between hope and sorrow.

The recurring motif of the 'mask' serves as a powerful metaphor for the facade that people often put on to hide their true feelings. The lines 'I wonder if you’re smiling / I wonder if you’re crying' reflect the uncertainty and curiosity about the ex-partner's emotional state. This duality of emotions is further emphasized by the contrasting imagery of 'high and low,' symbolizing the emotional rollercoaster that the protagonist is experiencing. The mask, therefore, becomes a symbol of the hidden pain and the unspoken words that linger after a breakup.

Cultural references to TWICE's own identity as a group are subtly woven into the lyrics. The lines '내 이름을 불러 줘 / 예전처럼 Once again / 거리를 좁혀 줘 / 운명처럼 Twice again' play on the group's name, TWICE, and their fanbase, ONCE. This not only adds a personal touch but also highlights the theme of longing for reconnection and the hope that fate will bring them back together. The song's emotional depth is further enriched by its melodic structure, which mirrors the highs and lows of the lyrics, creating a poignant and relatable narrative for anyone who has experienced the pain of a breakup.