KILL THE ROMEO

ZEROBASEONE's 'KILL THE ROMEO' is a powerful anthem about taking control of one's destiny and rewriting the narrative of love and life. The song opens with an awakening, symbolized by the protagonist opening a window to moonlight, which sets the stage for a transformative journey. The lyrics suggest a departure from traditional, often tragic love stories, as the protagonist vows to change everything for the sake of their beloved. This is encapsulated in the repeated phrase 'kill the Romeo,' which signifies breaking away from the doomed fate of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

The song's chorus emphasizes the idea of overturning destiny, likening it to a series of falling dominos. This metaphor suggests that once the decision to change is made, everything else will follow suit. The protagonist rejects the notion of a tragic ending, instead choosing to forge their own path. The lyrics 'Forget the Romeo' and 'Count on me like one, two, three' highlight a sense of agency and reliability, promising a new beginning free from the constraints of predetermined fate.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of escape and renewal. The idea of being 'runaways' and creating a unique ending together underscores the desire to break free from societal expectations and write a new story. The song also rejects clichés and embraces originality, as seen in the lines 'No cliché, 뻔하지 않을 이막은 우리 서사가 돼.' This reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing individuality and personal agency. By the end of the song, the protagonist and their partner are ready to 'fly high' and take control of their story, symbolizing empowerment and the courage to defy conventional narratives.