Scentist
VIXX
The Alluring Obsession in VIXX's 'Scentist'
VIXX's song 'Scentist' delves into the intoxicating allure of an obsession, using the metaphor of scent to explore themes of desire, control, and the pursuit of an ideal. The lyrics are rich with imagery, painting a vivid picture of a person who is deeply captivated by another, to the point of being consumed by their presence. The repeated references to scent and fragrance symbolize the lingering and pervasive nature of this obsession, which cannot be easily washed away or forgotten.
The song opens with vivid descriptions of nature, such as '붉은 꽃잎 한 장 어린잎도 한 장' (a red petal, a young leaf), setting a dreamlike and almost surreal tone. This imagery is juxtaposed with the intense and almost scientific approach to capturing the essence of the beloved, as seen in lines like '환상에 수치화 곤두선 촉각' (quantifying fantasy, heightened senses). This blend of natural beauty and meticulous calculation reflects the duality of the protagonist's feelings—both passionate and methodical.
As the song progresses, the lyrics reveal a deeper layer of the protagonist's psyche. The lines '온몸에 너를 씻어 덧씻어 덧씻어 널' (wash you over my whole body, again and again) and '넌 배어 넌 배어 씻어낼 수 없게 해' (you permeate, you permeate, making it impossible to wash away) emphasize the inescapable nature of this obsession. The protagonist is not just captivated by the beloved's scent but is also transformed by it, as indicated by '넌 나의 형이증을 완성해' (you complete my ideal form). This transformation suggests a loss of self, where the protagonist's identity becomes intertwined with their object of desire.
The song's climax brings a sense of resolution, with the protagonist fully embracing their obsession. The lines '깊숙이 드리워 널 쉬어 널 쉬어 널' (deeply immersed, you rest, you rest) and '오직 나만 보게 해' (make me see only you) convey a sense of surrender and acceptance. The protagonist is no longer fighting their feelings but is instead allowing themselves to be completely enveloped by them. This final acceptance highlights the powerful and consuming nature of desire, leaving the listener with a haunting and memorable impression of the song's themes.