SIGNAL
TWICE
Unrequited Signals: Decoding TWICE's 'SIGNAL'
TWICE's 'SIGNAL' is a playful and energetic track that delves into the frustrations of unrequited love and the challenges of communicating one's feelings. The song, performed by the South Korean girl group TWICE, is known for its catchy melody and the group's signature blend of K-pop and dance-pop elements. The lyrics express the narrator's attempts to send signals to their love interest, hoping to convey their affection and desire for a deeper connection beyond friendship.
The repeated phrase 'Sign을 보내, signal 보내' which translates to 'Sending a sign, sending a signal,' underscores the central theme of the song: the struggle to make one's feelings understood. The narrator is exasperated by their love interest's obliviousness to the various hints and gestures being made. The use of onomatopoeia '찌릿, 찌릿' (which can be interpreted as the sound of an electric shock or a spark) symbolizes the electric excitement and anticipation the narrator feels when trying to communicate their emotions. However, this excitement is met with a lack of response, leading to a sense of desperation and confusion.
The song's narrative is a common one, reflecting the universal experience of having a crush and the anxiety that comes with trying to express love. TWICE captures this sentiment with a mix of playful lyrics and vibrant beats, creating an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like their romantic signals were being missed. The group's performance often includes dynamic choreography that visually represents the act of sending signals, adding another layer of storytelling to the song.