Mental Illness as The Other and Hope in Selected Lyrics by TOMORROW X TOGETHER

  • Alif Akmal Abdul Majid Universiti Brunei Darussalam

Abstract

This article is a thematic analysis of selected song lyrics by Korean pop boy band, TOMORROW X TOGETHER. TOMORROW X TOGETHER is known for their profound and relatable lyrics that appeal to young people particularly when it comes to mental health issues. Mental illness is regarded as uncommon, and individuals suffering from it are being identified as the “Other” by society. This paper will analyze three of TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s song lyrics from their repackaged album, The Chaos Chapter: Fight or Escape (2021) namely Loser=Lover, Anti-Romantic, and 0X1=Lovesong (I Know I Love You). This article aims to examine the themes of mental illness as the Other and hope that can be found in the lyrics of the songs. In addition, the narrative exploration reveals a link between the three songs, revealing a persona that is facing depression and anxiety while seeking to find hope in life, illustrating the misconception of complete powerlessness

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Published
2022-06-30
How to Cite
ABDUL MAJID, Alif Akmal. Mental Illness as The Other and Hope in Selected Lyrics by TOMORROW X TOGETHER. J-Lalite: Journal of English Studies, [S.l.], v. 3, n. 1, p. 60-75, june 2022. ISSN 2723-357X. Available at: <https://jos.unsoed.ac.id/index.php/jes/article/view/5782>. Date accessed: 10 mar. 2025. doi: https://doi.org/10.20884/1.jes.2022.3.1.5782.
Section
Articles