Since their explosive debut in 2013 with "No More Dream," BTS has been synonymous with relentless forward momentum. Their career has been a testament to constant evolution and a refusal to stand still, a theme powerfully encapsulated in their recent performance of "Run BTS" at the in BUSAN concert. This iconic track, a defiant anthem of their "bulletproof" spirit, served as a potent reminder of their enduring journey. However, their latest single, "Swim," from the album Arirang, marks a deliberate departure from this high-octane pace, inviting listeners into a more contemplative and introspective space. While the song offers a soothing melody and smooth vocal delivery, it also presents a complex narrative that has sparked considerable discussion among fans and critics alike.
A Deliberate Shift in Pace: The Allure and Ambiguity of "Swim"
"Swim" introduces a noticeable deceleration for BTS, a move that carries both positive and potentially challenging implications. The track itself is undeniably accessible, characterized by a swaying, almost hypnotic melody and the members’ signature polished vocals. The all-English chorus, featuring the simple and memorable hook, "Swim, swim / Water falling off your skin," provides an easy entry point for a global audience, making it a tune that can linger in the mind long after its initial listen. This lyrical simplicity, coupled with the smooth sonic landscape, suggests a desire to connect on a more universal emotional level.
Thematically, "Swim" explores a sense of waiting and yearning, with the members pleading for the return of an unnamed individual. Intriguingly, the concept of time appears to be fluid within the song’s narrative. As J-Hope raps in his verse, "Under here, we don’t chase the time," a sentiment that resonates deeply with a group that experienced global superstardom only after years of dedicated effort. This perceived freedom from the constant pressure to "run" forward can be interpreted as a moment of welcome relief. Metaphorically, swimming itself is an activity that demands full-body engagement while simultaneously offering a sanctuary from external distractions, a chance to focus on breath and internal rhythm. This aligns with a potential desire for BTS to explore their artistry without the relentless external demands that often accompany their level of fame.
However, the contemplative "Swim" also faces scrutiny, with several aspects prompting debate. A primary point of contention for some fans is the song’s complete reliance on English lyrics. This has led to disappointment, particularly given the anticipation that Arirang would signify a return to the group’s Korean roots, a sentiment many understood to mean a resurgence of Korean lyricism. While the artistic freedom to express oneself in any language is paramount, and the effort made by non-native speakers is commendable, the all-English approach, when combined with other elements of the release, has raised questions.
Crafting a Global Sound: The Collaborative Genesis of Arirang
The creation of Arirang, and specifically the lead single "Swim," involved an extensive songwriting camp held in Los Angeles over a two-month period. This intensive collaboration brought together BTS with a roster of renowned international songwriters and producers, including industry heavyweights like Ryan Tedder, Diplo, Tyler Spry, El Guincho, and JPEGMAFIA. While this cross-cultural collaboration is a testament to BTS’s global influence and their willingness to explore diverse creative avenues, it has also fueled discussions about the album’s stated intention to foreground the group’s Korean heritage. The presence of a predominantly Western creative team has led to speculation about the target audience and the intended message of "Swim."
The production credits for "Swim" alone list nine individuals, with RM being the sole BTS member credited for his involvement in lyric writing, a role he reportedly embraced with significant engagement. This extensive collaborative process has drawn parallels to previous criticisms, such as those leveled against Map of the Soul: 7, where the sheer number of contributors raised concerns about a potential dilution of the group’s unique artistic voice. The question arises: when so many external voices are involved, how much of the core BTS identity remains intact?
Sonic Explorations and Visual Narratives: Deconstructing "Swim"
From a production standpoint, "Swim" is considered by some to be less impactful compared to BTS’s previous title tracks. While subtle string arrangements in the final chorus introduce a welcome textural variation, the persistent, sharp percussive element tends to overshadow the inherent softness of the vocals. This is further exacerbated by vocal processing that, at times, diminishes the distinct timbres of the members. While this contrast could be interpreted as intentional, a similar sharpness has been a recurring feature in recent BTS releases, leading to a sense of sonic familiarity that might not immediately ignite the characteristic "BTS" spark for listeners.
The music video for "Swim," directed by Tanu Muino and reportedly filmed off the coast of Portugal, is visually stunning, lending a cinematic quality to the members’ seafaring narrative. The imagery evokes a sense of adventure and exploration, a fitting backdrop for the song’s themes. However, this initial impression of depth and grandeur can be fleeting, mirroring the song’s overall impact for some viewers. The comparison of the music video to an "extended perfume commercial" has been cited, suggesting a visual aesthetic that, while beautiful, might lack substantive narrative depth.
A significant point of discussion surrounding the MV is the prominent inclusion of a white actress, Lili Reinhart, known for her role in "Riverdale." Reinhart bookends the video, appearing in both the second teaser and the final cut, where she seemingly time-travels between a contemporary setting and the historical voyage of BTS. Her character’s journey through the ship, experiencing the members as fleeting glimpses – a touch from V, a reflection from Jin – positions her as a central figure in a narrative that fans have anticipated for nearly four years.
This choice has sparked a debate about the intended audience and the message conveyed by Big Hit Music and BTS. While it could be argued that Reinhart serves as an outsider perspective, guiding viewers into a new narrative world, her selection as the primary bridge to this world has led to questions about the agency’s focus on Western audiences.
Unpacking the Layers: Historical Echoes and Cultural Connections
Beneath the surface, the "Swim" MV and the Arirang album concept offer deeper layers of interpretation, drawing inspiration from Korean history and culture. An animated trailer for Arirang revealed its connection to the story of seven Korean students who attended Howard University, one of the United States’ Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These students became instrumental in the first-known recording of the folk song "Arirang" in 1896. This historical context highlights a rich tapestry of cultural exchange and the enduring power of a song that has transcended time and generations. It’s important to note that this historical recording is distinct from the version commonly heard today, as confirmed by ethnomusicologists.
While the production of "Swim" itself may not delve into profound lyrical territory, certain lines offer moments of poignant reflection. The delivery of "I could spend my lifetime watching you" by V, Jungkook, and Jin, particularly with V’s resonant low timbre and the extended note on "watching," conveys a profound sense of sadness and longing. This can be interpreted as a nod to the increasing distance between the members themselves, perhaps due to solo activities or the temporal separation from their devoted ARMY. The lyric suggests a state of observation without direct connection, a longing for a closeness that is currently unattainable.
The music video also subtly embeds elements that connect to the broader themes of "Arirang." Jungkook’s focused gaze on the horizon as he steers the ship, coupled with the German word "voraus" (meaning "ahead") appearing in a quick shot, emphasizes the band’s readiness to move forward. Jimin’s declaration, "I just wanna dive," further reinforces this sense of anticipation and commitment to their next chapter.
A classic BTS touch is the inclusion of a Morse code message, discovered by eagle-eyed fans. Jin hands RM a note in the captain’s cabin, which, when deciphered, reads "NORMAL." This word is a direct reference to another track on the album, whose lyrics critically examine the immense pressure BTS faces daily and challenge listeners to question societal definitions of "normal." The message invites contemplation on whether their unique experiences and the pressures they navigate align with conventional understandings of a "normal" life.
The MV further explores the theme of presence and memory. Reinhart moves through the ship, interacting with the members as if they are frozen in time or existing as spectral presences. This visual metaphor suggests that while the members are physically present, their full story and essence are not entirely accessible to the observer, much like distant memories. Reinhart’s return to her present, dripping wet with a triumphant grin, implies that the narrative of BTS, and perhaps the message of "Arirang," can continue to resonate and be carried forward.
The opening sequence of the MV depicts the preparation and setting sail of the S.S. Arirang, followed by scenes of the members bracing for rough seas, working together to navigate the challenges. The final shot emphasizes their unified purpose and shared direction, looking towards an unseen horizon, symbolizing their collective anticipation for future endeavors.
The Enduring Legacy of "Arirang" and "Swim’s" Place Within It
"Arirang" as a folk song represents resilience and cultural continuity, a piece of heritage passed down through generations. While "Swim" offers glimpses of this tradition, critics suggest that these elements are not sufficiently developed to fully embody the significance of such a long-awaited comeback. The song’s repeated plea, "I just wanna to dive / I just wanna dive," raises the question of where the promised depth lies. The MV hints at intriguing ideas, but they remain largely on a superficial level, lacking the sustained development needed to create a truly profound impact.
Furthermore, the music video’s central thesis appears somewhat ambiguous. It oscillates between telling BTS’s story and narrating it through the limited perspective of an outsider. This potential indecision, coupled with a perceived desire to appeal to a broad audience, might inadvertently lead to a dilution of the intended message, potentially alienating rather than engaging.
Despite these critiques, the inclusion of "NORMAL" in Morse code and the exploration of themes like distance, longing, and the redefinition of normalcy suggest that BTS continues to engage with complex societal issues and their own unique journey. The song "Swim" and its accompanying visual narrative, while sparking debate, underscore BTS’s ongoing evolution as artists who are not afraid to explore new sonic territories and engage with profound thematic material, even as they navigate the intricate landscape of global fame and cultural identity. The Arirang album, with its multifaceted explorations, promises further introspection and connection for their devoted fanbase.