MANIAC

Stray Kids, a South Korean boy band known for their high-energy performances and thought-provoking lyrics, delve into the theme of hidden insanity and societal pressures in their song 'MANIAC'. The song's title itself suggests a chaotic and uncontrollable state of mind, which is a recurring motif throughout the track. The lyrics paint a picture of people pretending to be normal, suppressing their true selves to conform to societal expectations. The repeated references to '정상인 척' which translates to 'pretending to be normal', and the imagery of everyone being the same once 'Lock이 풀리면' or 'the lock is released', suggest a critique of the facade that people maintain in public.

The song uses vivid metaphors such as 'Frankenstein처럼 걸어' (walking like Frankenstein) and '나사 빠진 것처럼' (like a screw has come loose) to describe the internal struggle between one's true nature and the persona they present to the world. The mention of 'Frankenstein' is particularly evocative, drawing a parallel between the misunderstood monster and the inner turmoil of feeling out of place or abnormal. The lyrics also touch upon the idea that kindness can be mistaken for a right when it's given too often, hinting at the toxic dynamics that can arise from misinterpreting others' intentions.

'MANIAC' is not just a song about individual struggles with identity; it also reflects on the collective madness that can ensue when everyone is hiding their true selves. The line '비정상투성이 집단' (a group full of abnormalities) suggests that beneath the surface, everyone has their own issues and eccentricities. Stray Kids use their music to encourage listeners to embrace their unique qualities rather than suppress them. The energetic beats and dynamic rap verses of 'MANIAC' serve to embolden the message, making it an anthem for those who feel pressured to conform to societal norms.