TWICE “SIGNAL”

K-POP
2 min readNov 12, 2023

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Yearning for Connection

The recurring theme in the lyrics revolves around the struggle to communicate feelings. The repeated mention of sending signals and signs suggests a desire to express emotions that seem to go unnoticed or misunderstood. The frustration is palpable, as the singer describes the challenges of trying to convey their innermost thoughts to someone who appears oblivious.

The Complexity of Emotions

TWICE SIGNAL 2017

The lyrics touch upon the complexity of emotions in a one-sided affection. The use of phrases like “난 너를 원해” (I want you) and expressions of smiling in the person’s presence implies a romantic interest. However, the frustration grows as the singer feels their emotions are not reciprocated or even recognized. This emotional turbulence adds depth to the narrative, creating a poignant atmosphere.

Yearning for Recognition

There’s a poignant sense of yearning for acknowledgment and recognition. Lines like “언제까지 이렇게 둔하게 나를 친구로만 대할래” (Until when will you treat me only as a friend like this) reveal a desire for a deeper connection, something beyond the boundaries of friendship. The singer expresses the longing for the other person to see and understand their true feelings.

Symbolism in “Signal”

The repetition of the word “Signal” suggests that the singer is actively trying to communicate, possibly through various means, but the intended recipient is seemingly oblivious or unresponsive. The mention of physical gestures like eye contact and smiles adds a layer of non-verbal communication, emphasizing the struggle to bridge the gap between expressed and perceived emotions.

A Tale of Unrequited Love

In essence, the lyrics paint a picture of unrequited love, where the protagonist grapples with the challenge of making their feelings known. The journey is marked by attempts to send signals, share smiles, and convey emotions that, unfortunately, seem to fall on deaf ears. The song captures the emotional intensity and complexity of navigating one’s feelings in a relationship where the other person may not be aware of the depth of affection.

As with any interpretation, the beauty of music lies in its subjectivity. These insights provide a glimpse into the potential narrative woven within the lyrics, but the true depth of meaning is often open to individual perception.

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