Meaning of 일하는 중 (Working) (Cover) by Jung Kook (정국)

In the melodic and soulful cover of "Working" by Jung Kook (정국), the song reflects on themes of family, nostalgia, and the journey of self-discovery. Through introspective lyrics and heartfelt emotions, the song captures the essence of treasuring the moments that shape our lives and appreciating the hard work that goes into achieving happiness. Let's delve into some standout lyrics and uncover the imaginative themes they help develop.The lyrics start by painting a picture of a house where the narrator spends most of their time alone. The absence of their father due to work commitments sets the tone for the song's exploration of loneliness and longing. The line, "일하는중" (meaning "working" in Korean) echoes the repetitive nature of the narrator's situation and introduces the concept of dedication and commitment to achieving their dreams.Moving forward, Jung Kook reminisces about his childhood, associating an innocent memory with a specific item—a chocolate pie and a glass of milk placed on his desk every morning. This simple act represents the love and care provided by his father, who worked night shifts and eagerly awaited his return to share the treat. From this lyric, we can extract the theme of cherishing small gestures of affection and the sense of security that a loving family can bring.The chorus creates an uplifting atmosphere, urging us to strive for happiness and avoid unnecessary pain. The lines "아프지 말고" (meaning "don't get hurt" in Korean) serve as a reminder to protect ourselves from emotional wounds. These lyrics convey the underlying theme of self-love and the importance of prioritizing our well-being amidst the realities of life's demands.Further along, the song takes an unexpected turn by emphasizing the narrator's financial success. They express their ability to earn money and how it positively impacts their family's life. The mention of giving their mother only ₩100 (Korean won) in the past and now noticing how both their parents and the family dog look at them differently reflects a shift in their role and sense of responsibility. This lyrical twist unravels the theme of personal growth and maturation, illustrating how success can alter relationships and the individual's perception of their own worth.As the song progresses, the lyrics convey a phone call with the narrator's mother, filled with a motherly concern for her child's well-being. The nostalgic and playful tone of "뚜루루루 아들 잘 지내니" (meaning "Tralala, how are you doing, my son?") introduces the theme of the enduring bond between a parent and child. This lyric serves as a reminder of unconditional love and emotional support that family members provide, even as we navigate our own paths.The final verse of the song delves into the narrator's self-reflection. It highlights the evolution from an innocent and uninformed child to someone who now stands taller in their own place. The line "그 자릴 지켜가는 기분을" (meaning "the feeling of protecting that place") encapsulates the consistent presence and dedication required to keep moving forward in life. Through this lyric, the song embodies the theme of personal growth and the continuous effort to preserve the valuable aspects of one's identity.In summary, "Working" by Jung Kook is a heartfelt cover that explores themes of family, nostalgia, and personal growth. It invites listeners to appreciate the small moments, be kind to themselves, and acknowledge the transformation that occurs as we strive for success. The song reminds us to cherish our loved ones, embrace our past, and never forget the hard work it takes to create a meaningful life.