Black swan: an analysis of a BTS song

As a non-listener to kpop, this is a great read and a good look into this world.

-editors note

Black Swan: Melancholy Behind the Entrancing Melody 

By: Ammarah Q

Trigger Warning: This article mentions the topic of death 

Black Swan by Kpop band BTS delineates the gradual and eventual loss of a person’s passion. Over time, the individual loses the euphoric experience of something once cherished. The title figuratively refers to the Black Swan Theory, which is formally defined as “an unpredictable and/ or unforeseen event, typically one with extreme consequences.” In the context of the song, the Black Swan Theory relates to music no longer having the same impactful meaning it once did. Both the commencement and aftermath of it is significantly delved into, illustrating the confusion created by a loss of connection and identity. This is further exacerbated by the internal suffering felt by the subject, unable to accept this, thus perceiving it with shock despite its slow progression. 

The song was inspired by a quote from late American dancer Martha Graham, stating that a dancer “dies twice.” The first death signifies the stoppage of dancing, which is “more painful.” This is alluded to in the second verse, quoting the absence of the resonance is understood to result in the “first death.” In this case, it correlates to the diminishment of music in general, losing the importance it once had, hence causing the individuals it served to be deprived of a part of themselves. This is accentuated by the inception of the song which avers the fact that the heart “no longer races” while music is played. Through this, the primary realisation of the decline in the subjects’ fervour is presented, leading their remaining purpose to be questioned as they believe there is no longer any use for them, therefore comparing it to their idea of the end. 

The concept of timelessness is considerably explored, resulting from a haze of events following the reduction of the ardour. This is manifested through multiple excerpts which narrate feelings of being trapped in time due to confusion. Initially, the subjects feel as though “time has stopped.” These feelings are the after-effects of a loss of passion, consequently no longer being able to stimulate any progression to call time. Later in the chorus, it is advanced into a differing idea of every moment becoming “eternity.” By using contrasting phrases due to the overarching theme, the song exhibits pivotal effects revolving around unending emptiness caused by the decay of one’s spirit, no longer having a drive of motivation, hence creating loss of advancement. 

The repercussions of the phenomenon of the Black Swan are foregrounded, revealing the grave reality faced after the privation of what appeared to be the central prominence of the subject. It is conveyed through the psychological anguish experienced by the individuals, unable to make sense of the failing connection and an eventual identity crisis. During the pre-chorus, this becomes evident through the phrase “crying out a silent cry.” The audience is further able to understand the torture felt by the individuals, being at a loss to express themselves. Consequently, feelings of captivity are constantly evoked after the subjects’ attempt to “escape,” however “with no avail,” further underscoring their pain. It is more evidently rendered by a direct plea quoting “please free me,” in the third verse. Due to both the direct and indirect hints of suffering, the audience is provided an insight into the true value of one’s treasured passion, being more than a mere form of entertainment.  

Black Swan ultimately depicts the ramifications following the decline and eventual loss of a person’s passion. While portraying the effects encompassing uncertainty, self-doubt and torment, describing it as “sinking slowly,” a glimmer of hope is shown with a slowly reforming mindset stating “nothing can devour” the subject. The song acts as a form of melancholic preparation for the worst, precisely losing interest in something once overly desired. 

Images are screenshots from the official BTS Black Swan Music Video on YouTube