My Sea (아이와 나의 바다)

IU's 'My Sea (아이와 나의 바다)' is a poignant exploration of self-reflection, growth, and the journey towards self-love. The lyrics convey a sense of struggle with unresolved issues that persist over time, suggesting that the inability to fully love oneself can lead to feelings of emotional poverty. IU's use of the sea as a metaphor throughout the song represents the vast and deep emotions that reside within her, which were once vibrant and full of life but have since faded, leaving only faint traces behind.

The song's narrative shifts between past and present, contrasting the innocence and boundless dreams of youth with the more complex realities of adulthood. IU reflects on the pain of growing up and the distance that time creates between her past and present selves, hinting at a disconnection that seems irreparable. However, there is also a sense of hope and resilience as she acknowledges the beauty in every moment that life brings her way, recognizing these experiences as dazzling gifts. The lyrics suggest a journey of returning to one's roots, to the place where one's inner sea was born, indicating a desire to reconnect with the essence of who she is.

'My Sea' ultimately speaks to the universal human experience of navigating through life's challenges and the quest for self-acceptance. IU's message is one of perseverance and the courage to face the darkness without closing one's eyes to it. Even when life feels overwhelming and defeats seem inevitable, there is an understanding that one knows the way back home, to the heart, and to the inner self that has been waiting to be rediscovered and embraced.