Cheers to youth (청춘찬가)

SEVENTEEN's song 'Cheers To Youth (청춘찬가)' captures the complex emotions and experiences of young adulthood, blending introspection with a call to resilience. The lyrics open with a reflection on facing a new day, which, despite its challenges, should not deter one from moving forward. The song encourages not dwelling on the painful words or moments that might make one dislike oneself, suggesting a focus on the positive, using one's voice to sing the 'song of youth' wherever they might be.

The middle verses of the song delve deeper into the internal conflicts many young people face, such as the fear triggered by a ringing bell or the contradictory desires to be alone yet not feeling lonely. These lines highlight the confusion and search for happiness that often characterize youth. The lyrics poignantly ask where one's happiness lies, emphasizing the solitude and reflection found in moments like looking at one's reflection on a turned-off phone screen. This introspection is a crucial part of growing up, acknowledging the hardships but also the small victories, like managing a smile amidst a suffocating world.

Towards the end, the song shifts to a more hopeful tone, finding comfort in small things like a warm blanket and looking forward to tomorrow. It suggests a reconciliation with the challenges of yesterday and a hope that tomorrow's alarms will be less daunting. This progression from introspection to a cautious optimism encapsulates the journey of youth, marked by both struggle and growth, and the importance of self-encouragement and finding joy in the little things.