I read every book Namjoon (RM from BTS) has recommended and found my new favourite book 📚

[@jack_edwards]

A note on 'Me Before You' -- in this video, I focussed on Jojo Moyes' representation of sexual assault and her general writing style in the novel which is enjoyable to read. I should have also pointed out the ableist depiction of disability in this book, which suggests a disabled life is not worth living. This is, of course, untrue and unfair, and not an opinion I agree with, and I'm certain Namjoon does not condone ableism either. 'Me Before You' is just one narrative, but it's still damaging to depict a disabled person in this way since disabilities are rarely portrayed in books and on-screen. I chose not to discuss this in the video as it did not link to Namjoon or BTS (and to avoid making the video super long), but I realise in hindsight that I should've mentioned it in my review. I'm so, so sorry for not adding this sooner, but I hope this pinned comment helps add a bit more context. Hope this makes sense -- lots of love

[@sawsan6982]

Thank you for adding this because I agree that this particular aspect of the book was incredibly troubling for me and left a bad taste in my mouth when I finished it.

[@emilievayner390]

I never thought about it this way, obviously coming from an able bodied- bias. Its one of my favorite books and I think its more of what Will wanted for himself. I think if anything through Lou's love for will JoJo shows that a disabled life IS worth living and being loved, but it isn't the life Will want for himself. BUT that is just my perspective and this is an important discussion to have!

[@stephanielush7345]

Thank you for adding this. I am a disabled person and I have watched the movie but not read the book (yet - I do own it). I’m personally ok with how the movie depicted this issue. I don’t see it as an overall view of what disabled people go through but more a personal individual experience of this one character. Although I wouldn’t do what he did to end his life, I do respect and understand it completely. Thanks for all the amazing videos you create, I enjoy them a lot!! You clearly put a lot of hard work and effort into each one.

[@narflet]

It's a book written by a non-disabled author using disability as a plot point because the narrative is very much the story of an able bodied person and how they think a disabled person should feel and behave. I'd urge everyone who's read it or watched the film to seek out reviews of it from disabled people to understand the problems in it and to read stories from disabled voices, memoirs, anthologies like 'Unbroken' (edited by Marieke Nijkamp) or 'Disfigured' by Amanda Leduc which examines ableism in fairy tales. Suggesting that it's ok because it's Will's choice might make you feel better but ignores how his death was entirely preventable if his depression had actually been taken seriously and treated professionally rather than being hand waved away as 'respecting his choice', which really just reveals able bodied peoples fear of disability. This book not only reinforces that fear of disability but is part of the attitudes that enable governments to force disabled people to live in poverty and effectively enact genocide on disabled populations. Just read how disabled people have disproportionally suffered during covid. Ultimately can one really say 'it was Will's choice' when he was clearly living with a huge amount of internalised ableism? Was not the choice imposed upon him?

[@mariajoao5243]

@@narflet I completely understand where you're coming from, and although I do agree with most of what you said, I think it's also problematic to think of his depression (caused by ableism) as the only reason for his choice. Depression is treatable and without a doubt the main cause for the desire of death antecipation, but that doesn't have to discredit this desire.

[@nataliemaxey7796]

“It’s the range for me. Namjoon said versatility but he also said taste” Best quote I’ve heard this week

[@aahana4931]

listening to people praise BTS and the boys adds 10 stress-free years to my life

[@a.w.s.3]

12:13

[@sunlion7]

This makes me so happy

[@kecym.4808]

👌🏼

[@sippingsometaeandkookie9613]

@@a.w.s.3 thanks💜

[@jazlynjose6972]

I saw a man falling in love with namjoon's brain in the span of 20 minutes and I have to say I love it

[@sunlion7]

Ihave to say I love you put that phrase together

[@suj2024]

👍

[@cookiecrumbs3110]

Yes after jungkook, this man was the first namjoon stan I loved to watch.

[@kaelynnkuang4560]

Namjoons sexy brain 🥺

[@hereAnna]

With namjoonie's sexy brain

[@varushkabhushan7383]

"Namjoon we may become besties" get in line

[@jimochim780]

LMAOO, THERE A LONG ASS QUEUE

[@msapurvapahade]

This cracked me up😂

[@armyofbangtan8790]

LMAO😂😂😂😂😂

[@moonrose1850]

😂

[@mariamally4107]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣true true

[@jannm3347]

Namjooning is the best part of being a BTS fan.

[@jinhitofficial6881]

😌🖐 Yep

[@hwatoes965]

his Instagram feed 😫

[@ems3292]

@@ijustwokeup1277 sameee

[@onceblink4495]

*one of the best

[@ourpurpleworld7]

Totally agree ☺️❤️

[@zee166]

his formal application to be a bts army is by reading some books recommended by rm oof the flex my lazy ass could never

[@cookiecrumbs3110]

Good one

[@merrykris3178]

same

[@hariniobla422]

Tbh if you start reading any of these books you won't be able to stop 😂 I had actually read these before BTS referenced these and I can vouch for them 👍

[@Alrightmira]

Can we appreciate how hard making a single video is? Like reading the books, doing research and editing!!

[@jack_edwards]

all worth it when i get to read lovely comments like this one

[@Alrightmira]

Jack Edwards Honestly thank you for starting your KZbin channel. My favorite video is the Arabic literature one because I think Arabic literature is so underrated

[@Shelly-kx2wz]

Yas we need be grateful for that on it's own.🙌🙌

[@spring7643]

Ikr it's insanely hard, people have no idea if they haven't made videos before 🙌

[@sophiebloom7211]

@@jack_edwards can we have part 2? Do u read Breaking Out of the "Man Box": The Next Generation of Manhood? Namjoon also read that book. I love how u simplify the books its easier for me to understand. Anyway your sweater is cute!!

[@jiminandlemonade]

my worlds have suddenly collided?

[@Anonymous-tw3bd]

IKRRRR

[@zoeehh373]

Tell me about it ;-)

[@gracemackenzie1432]

I WAS JUST THINKING THIS HSHDHSHSJ

[@bookoffholicbookwart5945]

I second this

[@nepenthe_1610]

jiminandlemonade lmao yes!

[@ihola3602]

Namjoon's love for books and his intelligence is why BTS has wide array of discography. Diverse and well-thought. RM's truly a gem of K-Pop.

[@madina8775]

Can't agree more🤝

[@flowerforthesun]

LOUDER! and the fact that he's the songwriter of fake love, black swan spring day- the most critically acclaimed songs in bts discography

[@euphoriastan3528]

Not kpop, just BTS. They’re no kpop.

[@aishwaryaahirrao]

💯

[@miayim4267]

Totally agree 👍

[@cookiejar.mp3]

All the non-armys in the comments changing their minds about bts after watching this makes me so happy

[@Veronika-vy5ou]

Me too

[@ouihya]

Yes, we honor this for them and also for BTS for sure! We receive them too Welcome to our PURPLE world

[@jeonjungkook9981]

Same me too

[@minaa16mina87]

Me too 🥺👏💜

[@sridevisudhahar309]

Yup! Makes me so happy that no one is judging either (people are so quick to judge when they see the word kpop), thank you guys!

[@icebear4489]

RM is basically not just an idol he is a role model in my eye's. He inspire me to be successful like seriously I know it's a weird thing to say, but he is a big influence in my life.

[@oishi4394]

It's not weird at all cuz Namjoon is my inspiration too. Tbh RM got me into reading different books

[@Jz_jimnie]

it's not crazy he is my role model too 💜

[@skyesommerville9527]

I don't think it's weird I feel the same .

[@rafisahanum3621]

Namjoon literally inspired me to read again..tbh, i don't read any unacademic books (books don't relate to school/uni) after i'm 18..i just started read unacademic books again last year when i'm 29..like seriously for how long i didn't read?? But namjoon really inspired me to read back!! I do read some his recommendation books too.. it's true, he has TASTE! 😍💜

[@sandaraka3439]

same 😙

[@malikakour1963]

The fact that he checked MV'S after reading the books and even explaining the MV. Huge respect

[@yinhannasjournal]

Absolutely. 😌

[@peachylemonade4319]

Fr!! I'm genuinely impressed.

[@pinkcat5011]

Y'all we are missing the opportunity to call this #JoonRecommendations (like June Recommendations......but Namjoon O_O

[@vodkamutini3979]

what's mv?

[@peachylemonade4319]

@@vodkamutini3979 Music Video

[@ShehzeenMuzaffar]

i have NEVER seen a non-fan approach BTS in such a respectful way. Thank you and you have a fan in me!

[@noodleexpanding3407]

Lmao, every non-fan content creator is forced to tipoe around the BTS topic for fear of the fans' retaliation. It's basically, you sugarcoat everything you say or we attack and cyberbully you. What's your point? I have never seen any content creator dared speaking about BTS without a bunch of disclaimers and qualifiers attached to their video.

[@shehzeeeen]

no one said you sugarcoat things lol however people are VERY disrespectful towards BTS bcs they are a boyband and so on so please dont tell the fans what to do or what not to do.

[@jadenchee3878]

Came for the books, got a stunning analysis of Spring Day MV. Not at all disappointed. 10/10.

[@bartomiejkomarnicki7506]

Spring Day is peak of lyricism in pop music, periodt

[@kayaeki]

sameee

[@cookiecrumbs3110]

Ikr! It was like a cherry on the top.

[@Persianwolfart]

Same. I had no idea about the references to books made

[@rise1996]

Same here. I got a bit emotional although I knew most of the references lol.

[@Tanishqa700]

This is the side of BTS' music that I want everyone to see. Even if you're not a fan, you can atleast appreciate the multiple references and wordplay that goes into the lyrics and music videos

[@leemon5557]

Yes.

[@anukritisrivastava8529]

Seriously bro.. people consider them just some kpop boy band who sings, dances have wierd interview sessions and colour their hairs.. there's soo much more to them than that..

[@leemon5557]

@IfMoN what songs have you listened from them?

[@leemon5557]

@IfMoN do you have twt? I wanna recommend you songs!! :))

[@leemon5557]

@IfMoN is it the Nora daza one?

[@althia6813]

We got a new fanboy....... and he is handsome+intelligent

[@lenaurbanek4022]

jes gurl u right

[@seri-chan7040]

Ik

[@angelamoreno2049]

Army for the win

[@Arije01]

Ikrrrr

[@KT-rk6fn]

No he isn't

[@tyraeide9158]

There's a reason why I did my norwegian literature research project on BTS. I got a top grade on the written part, writing about the parallels between Demian and the WINGS short films (including the book Siddhartha by the same author, to get more material to fill the requirements of the assignment), and also got a top grade on my oral presentation on how BTS shed light on problems in the South Korean society through referencing Demian in the short films. Thank you, BTS!

[@tabassumshaik509]

gosh i'd love to read that

[@Noname-rq1hr]

Okay where can we read this??? It sounds super interesting

[@rabeeasalman1095]

is there a way we can read it?

[@onsrejeb6083]

I would like to read it if there’s a way

[@howyoulikethat2150]

I would love to read this

[@tundekaszas5210]

i am not sure if you heard, or if people have commented this already or not, but one of the things i respect the most about Namjoon is how back in the day, i think 2014, when most of their fans were international, and bts were called out for some misogynistic messages in MVs like Boy in Luv, War of Hormone, and in some of their lyrics, Namjoon took it upon himself to educate himself on the matter, and he even stated he started going to a women's studies professor to get his lyrics checked to MAKE SURE they were not discriminative, and , I assume he continues to do so to this day. Their 2018 song Boy With Luv is kind of a do-over of Boy In Luv, with messages clearly showing how much they've grown and how much they respect their fans. They basically redid their song to right their wrong. They are wonderful people, who wanted to learn and become more considerate and educated on the matter, as well as so many more.

[@stepbackinafightdoesntmean5774]

Woww...i just knew about this ... Thank youu!!!

[@TaeChanWorld]

Yes!!

[@rebeccaowusu8718]

Wow I never knew that was what was behind Boy With Luv, I thought it was just a generic pop song that had a similar title as Boy In Luv, that's really amazing of him to basically redo the song with better messages!

[@inessa5923]

Wow, that's very honorable.

[@helenwinter3320]

i mean not to like be a downer but doesn't every major group have sensibility readers? like it's still amazing that he did educate himself and probably at that time they were still rather small, so it wasn't something to be taken for granted, but i feel like today it's only logical to have sensibility readers if you're a major artist like bts, if you say something offensive in a song it could cause quite the scandal and also prbly hurt lots of your fans so

[@himarktuan]

in conclusion: namjoon sexy brain

[@lili-lv2wi]

you saw my brain?

[@ashtonloke5120]

I was looking for this comment.. 😆 Found it.

[@krishasilvan4897]

uhuh

[@whyparkjiminnotridejimin]

Lmao😂

[@ye6090]

A got7 stan who is not toxic towards others? Sign me up!

[@kerosene9579]

my respect for you is off the charts! the research, the time, the analysis, the raw summary and opinion, the slowly fading into an ARMY, it’s all amazing!

[@jack_edwards]

🥰🥰🥰

[@SatyaPrakash-hs1ni]

@@jack_edwards Please review the following English language sci fi books by Indian authors. You will attract a large following. 1. The Return of Vaman by J. V. Narlikar1. The Return of Vaman by J. V. Narlikar 2. The Five Friends Battle Against Aliens by Kiran Kumar Singh 3. Chosen Spirits by Sumit Basu 4. Aliens in Delhi by Sami Ahmad Khan 2. The Five Friends Battle Against Aliens by Kiran Kumar Singh 3. Chosen Spirits by Sumit Basu 4. Aliens in Delhi by Sami Ahmad Khan

[@runah4899]

i just watch it, and i agree 😭💜

[@chhavigoyal3447]

okay. I'm not even a BTS fan, nor have I listened to their music. But this is how any artist(s) should be perceived. He is a very neutral, open minded guy. I mean he properly researched stuff. Others just go with whatever they've heard on internet.

[@butnamjoongunshot2510]

It feels nice to see people talking nice things about bts Thank you

[@ashsjapanesejourney9639]

Yes!!

[@pacingforward7]

Exactly! This!!! ❤

[@kimnamjoon3006]

and that's why BTS's songs written by RM are perfect pieces of art.

[@claudiavellary3450]

Genius

[@iamktlyn]

He always wanted to be a poet too

[@herabysss]

He's a book himself with full of wisdom that if I ever find him in the library I gladly spend all of my time reading him

[@AlbeQwQ]

Exactly! I love his part so much in Life Goes On.

[@hyucklovr]

@@iamktlyn in some way he is tho and i fuck w it-

[@rikkej572]

I love the way jack is literally the opposite of toxic masculinity

[@swathisaravanan7618]

I was thinking about the same thing through the entire video and he is genuinely the total opposite of toxic masculinity♡

[@roberta4628]

Oh yes! 👍

[@skurinski]

too bad no one talks about toxic femininity

[@eku_o1471]

@@skurinski out of pure curiosity what is toxic femininity? I'm 90% sure I shouldn't start this conversation but why not.

[@cokeandcheese.6617]

@@eku_o1471 i think it might be shaming others for displaying femininity. in the past and even until now although lesser, femininity is always linked to weakness. basically girly = weak. (i think that's what it is)

[@sreejonibhattacharjee8525]

When he started talking about the book "the one who walks away from omelas" Armys Don't lie You thought of spring day

[@Patchouli59]

I read Omelas *because* of Spring Day

[@sid._.3652]

Everytime I try to get the damn book, someone already reserved it like😔✋

[@sreejonibhattacharjee8525]

@@Patchouli59 oh is that so Now I am also thinking of reading it😂

[@sreejonibhattacharjee8525]

@@sid._.3652 ooooooh noooo😭 I'll pray for u so that u can get it next time Isn't there a audio book version of it?

[@sid._.3652]

@@sreejonibhattacharjee8525 ooo I actually never thought of that..I'll try searching up audio versions! Thanks for the idea!!

[@faithmo5347]

another thing is that Kim Jiyoung: Born 1982 is a book that commonly deemed as "too radically feminism" or just "anti-men" by many misogynistic men in SK. Some female idols also recommended this book or were seen reading this or supporting this, and they were accused of "being a feminist/anti-men", which is just...absurd. This is a great book, the film is also good too, I'm glad that namjoon liked it and recommended it to a wider audience.

[@jasminedubois6711]

I want to pick up that book.

[@jasminedubois6711]

The issue of feminism in SK is so strange.

[@Cherry_cola4]

Gosh I don't understand why people assume that being a feminist means we are anti-man or spreading a man hating agenda.

[@padslights3147]

@@Cherry_cola4 ikr?! Being a feminist means you stand for equality it has absolutely nothing to do with man hating.

[@jasminedubois6711]

Even more crazy is the fact that almost 60% of men in their 20s in SK are against feminism. Just... Why?!

[@franisthebest1234]

And that my friends is why queen spring day hasn’t left the Korean charts in 4 f***ing years 😌✌️

[@armyofbangtan8790]

On CB day Spring Day always manage to be in the trending list😂 and I think I'm one of the reason why🤣

[@rmtoldmetostudysoido3627]

@@armyofbangtan8790 me too

[@marygrace8389]

the songs get more attention to when the season changes to spring in Korea too hahaha

[@saqshl]

@@rmtoldmetostudysoido3627 please I really love your username

[@rmtoldmetostudysoido3627]

@@saqshl ohhh thank you 💜😊

[@rinquel]

I don't know much about BTS, but now I'm actually impressed by this guy's literary taste. Sign me in as interested.

[@winterflower579]

ready to welcome you anytime😌

[@Ariadne4]

Yes you will definitely not regret it😌💜

[@a.u.m.4489]

Yep....army's are theorists here 😆👏

[@minaa16mina87]

Welcome 🤗

[@BtsARMY-gb9vf]

welcome

[@minisweaterpaws8152]

In all honesty, Joonie is more than an idol. He's an artist of his own mastery, wisdom. This man is so full of things that will open your mind to new things and things that aren't well-known. He's so deep just by watching his Vlives, it seems that you're talking to a person who already lives for a long to know such things that will enlighten you. And I'm beyond glad to you Sir Jack to have this immense enthusiasm to one of Joonies crafts.

[@pranaygurnule5666]

Yeah he is a god worship him night and day bet he doesn't even knows that you exist 😂

[@breezy.peasyyy]

@@pranaygurnule5666 It's funny how people see compliments as worshipping.😂 Everything this commenter said is true. Namjoon makes many people feel comforted because of the advice he gives, his insight on certain topics, and he teaches many people new things everyday! You definitely don't have to feel the same, but just because another person compliments him, feels glad that people are looking into what he's read, and comments on his wisdom, doesn't mean that they worship him.😂

[@lincal4377]

@@pranaygurnule5666 why are u mad sit down 💀

[@beatrizrosa7414]

He literally goes to the beach to search for little crabs... how can we not appreciate him ☺️

[@Ariadne4]

@@pranaygurnule5666 and why does that matter lol😂namjoon is a genius and we love how open minded he is, and we will appreciate it. That doesn't mean we worship him lol

[@AS-ye1qc]

Spring Day is Namjoon's brainchild. One of my all time favourite songs. RM is a genius & his lyrics and wordplays are no joke. Baby armys & everyone else interested in BTS' lyrics should watch his album behind lives. RM has been the main songwriter of the group since their debut & he has come up with a lot of themes for BTS albums. Since RM is an intellectual & enjoys reading a lot, he draws a lot of inspiration from these books. I think u'll find it very fascinating & will definitely enjoy hearing his insights.

[@betatesting3449]

"World plays are no joke" is the line my ex would def use for BTS in general.😂

[@Lunaa22lovegood_stanstuff]

This comment is old but my god 'brainchild' is cracking me up lmaoo 🤣🤣🤣

[@datbishboo6956]

I love how he gave an ACTUAL opinion and wasnt just like every other person when i comes to BTS with the automatic praise because to be honest I rlly wanted to know what the books were about and all that good good :) so Fanks bruv

[@klarileo8452]

I approve of this message (not that it needed my approval)

[@datbishboo6956]

@@klarileo8452 (but it is greatly appreciated :)

[@klarileo8452]

@@datbishboo6956 bless u(♥ω♥*)

[@Itsnottmeduh]

omg yes! His opinion makes me really want to read the book. And from his opinion too I could kinda sort which one that I want to read first.

[@datbishboo6956]

@@Itsnottmeduh Right? since you mentioned wanting to read them which is understandable if you dont have the money to buy the books there is this website where you can read them for free called,,,Z library,,, i havent searched up the books yet but i heard about it from a friend :)

[@padminisri42]

Imagine stanning a group then discovering yourself. I am proud to be an army.

[@AnaFerreira-kp2ec]

It happened to me! I’m so proud of them 💜💜💜

[@moonchild7597]

It's the best thing ever happened to me..

[@padminisri42]

I bought a few books outta the list! I am very excited about it!

[@AnaFerreira-kp2ec]

@@moonchild7597 same 💜

[@pranaygurnule5666]

Lmaooo

[@kaelynnkuang4560]

I think the reason Namjoon recommended "Metamorphosis" was because he related to the main character's feelings and adjustment to the new body. Namjoon's often talked about feeling like an 'alien' or outsider to the western music industry despite BTS receiving more popularity. It's possible he is relating to the struggle in his own body and mind as being forcibly treated like a foreigner rather than a recognized, talented artist.

[@ryunsho3603]

ah, i see he's a man of culture as well

[@gailloulec9159]

Kafka metamorphosis is an allegory for depression, and the story follows the main character’s family disgust for him. The man-bug is unable to go on with his day-to-day occupations and it’s quite interesting because you can see the disgust that the whole society has for this person, and how alone people who suffer from depression are

[@Chill_330]

@@gailloulec9159 wow that's amazing

[@palos23]

@@gailloulec9159 I don't think this book is necessarily about depression. I mean yeah, to an extend it is, but imo it's more about the protagonist's role as the sole breadwinner of the family in the modern world, and the alienation from oneself and the society that comes with that. The whole story isn't even about how he will return to being human again, it's rather about how he will attend work in his body of a bug and pay off the debts of his family. The alienation occurs because of his complete devotion to his work. We had this whole subject back in school, about how people lose themselves when they attend the role of a worker and looked at theories by Marx and stuff. the protagonist turns into a bug because his inner feelings about his work gain the upper hand etc. It's been a few years since I analyzed this book back in high school tho, so I'm not that confident in my theory anymore, but thanks for reading if you did :) (and sorry about the English, it's not my first language)

[@yasuhohirose2340]

BRUH I THOUGHT U WERE TALKING ABOUT 177013

[@faithbradley4224]

Not gonna lie, although I ain’t an army (but I like their music), Namjoon inspires me and I’m honestly so glad he’s the leader of BTS because he seems so wise. He inspires me to continue learning and studying my passions (animal conservation-which basically means saving animals from extinction or, at least, preserving animal and environmental species).

[@emilystanden6707]

It makes me so happy to see non-fans/casual listeners feel inspired by BTS as well. Goes to show far their message reaches. I wish you good luck on achieving your dreams! 💜

[@faithbradley4224]

Aww! Thank you so much! I wish you the best too, in whatever dreams you have. God bless!

[@JasmineDragonXYL]

Same, not an army, but some of their lyrics and music videos are so beautiful and inspiring. Namjoon and Yoongi are amazing lyrists. Their themes, symbolism and wording really inspire me for writing essays. One of my favorite songs lyric-wise is 'Strange', that song really got me thinking. It's a shame they keep releasing those English songs that aren't written by them, they only give people a wrong image of BTS.

[@Jaguar470]

How is you passion coming along? 🙂

[@lapluieici]

Couldn't agree more. I'm too, not even an army but little did i know that namjoon is a smart and wise person. He's like smart-smart kind of a guy you're having crush on in college.

[@whenyousmileismiletoo5419]

Namjoon is my fictional soulmate. Hes beyond wise and conscious of the world and life

[@strawtifulbonnie9363]

*aggressively agrees*

[@sheikad0w]

i read the ones who walk from omelas (because of bts and because spring day is the best song) and wrote a paper on in grade 11, and i got so philosophical about it that my teacher pulled me aside to ask if i was okay 😭

[@jack_edwards]

hahahaha omg if that ain't a mood

[@rookie8680]

hahahahaha oh nooo 😭 i wrote an article/essay analysis for my school the other day toooo! its such a good story to dive into and understand

[@sisnitangent9172]

@@rookie8680 y'all i wouldn't mind if you had links lol

[@wut8345]

Omg me too. For me it was my dad. But since he is as weird as I am it was fun. The story literally haunts you.

[@serenity3209]

🙉🤭😁

[@bangtanforever6183]

The reason i started liking bts was its lyrics , concepts and their messages. I am a literature student and i loved how they cover these concepts in their music videos. Its like a whole new world where you always try to find what bts meant in their videos. Atleast in today's world no one does that and that's what attracted me

[@moonchild7597]

Yes same.. And now seeing ur pfp makes wanna cry and laugh at the same time.. 😭😂💜

[@a34384]

@@moonchild7597 yesss they were getting so deep and then I looked at the pfp 😂💜

[@amanix10]

Same! I was drawn to the HYYH and Wings eras because of that. I'm less interested in them these days, but I'll always appreciate those concepts and messages they came up with. It was an intricate web of things that you could dive so deeply into, just like a book.

[@bangtanforever6183]

@@amanix10 i have become more and more interested in them now that they have become a part of me

[@innerchildwontchange]

0:46 “namjoon I think we might become besties” 3 seconds later: proceeds to drop the books* me: yes. you two can become besties. loll

[@reirance]

hahahaha literally 🤣

[@gaurikurhade1218]

😂😂😂

[@lakshmiganapathy4128]

Lol iykyk

[@nerminiskenderli4656]

LMAO💀

[@Bhagya1306]

😆

[@ems7582]

I just want to thank you for doing the research and not succumbing to the stereotype that these artists are manufactured and only serve the purpose of teenage fantasies. They don't. Some of us confide in these songs because their lyrics mean a lot to us. :)

[@joon5569]

absolutely love this comment - i couldn’t agree with this more!

[@junehoneycrisp]

*Most of us

[@ren8432]

this is the first time i see a youtuber doing ACTUAL research about them, the mv references are all on point! its refreshing to hear how a person can adore them because of their artistry instead of just jumping into the bandwagon and just point out their hair color, style or dance. BTS is more than that and im thankful you got to know them:) I've read almost all of these books in order to fully understand their music and message and im glad i did cuz they have one of the best taste in books💜

[@prtyyyyy]

Their song "butterfly" is inspired by the last chapter of "Kafka on the shore" it's the most beautiful song I have listened, if you would like to Please give the song a try :)

[@sunpgbn654]

Butterfly is and will always be my VERY first BTS song ! Nobody giave and introduced me of KPOP music. I found a cover of instrumentalia of Butterfly. Then very slowly I gave a chance to myself to know whose song is this. The rest was just like soo many army, i went down the rabbit hole 😄 joyfully. I just knew about this Kafka thing inspired the making of Butterfly in 2019! I am Mom army and proud to stan for bangtans men!! They are brilliant musicians.

[@prtyyyyy]

@@sunpgbn654that's so cool, for me, it's my ultimate no.1 favourite song and I love both versions of the songs (prologue version though hits harder because of the nature sounds at the beginning)

[@unionfire]

@@sunpgbn654 While Butterfly is not the first BTS song I listened to, it's a special song to me, because it made me want to find out more about BTS and when I was in a dark place TT

[@nehaagrawalspamemail1729]

@@unionfire it wasn’t my first either but I really love it !! It makes me feel inspired and warm and happy LMFAO and I also hear rms version in my head all. the. time. ☺️

[@BebeNicole]

@@desta9467 please, i'm also big fan of murakami since i was 16 then i accident found 'butterfly' from bts just because this sound so beautiful and then i check the lyric and freak out like wtf, this is meant to be. Now i'm Army with no dout.

[@porrrnesianparrrapio950]

Namjoon is really a role model. Although he is famous, his simplicity always impresses me. He loves nature, art, music very much. And I'm glad I received this video in my recommendations. I'm glad someone is talking about the books Nam-joon recommends. I really like the way you speak, it is clear from the way you express yourself that you are very smart. Thank you very much for your sincerity. I'm glad there are more people like Nam-joon. The kind of people who can guide a generation to a better future.

[@REChronic54]

I read Demian when Blood Sweat and Tears and that whole era in their discography came out. I can tell you, it was a surreal experience. It wasn't just a superficial concept where a band changes their hairstyle and clothes, no they were fully absorbed into it. The fans were going ham analyzing and theorizing every video bts released at that time; Demian sold out at multiple bookstores. It was crazy.

[@jaychilton9507]

I was on holiday at the time when the short films came out before the wings release, and once folks figured out the Demian connection I went to the bookshop in my relative's village and asked for them to order it in for me! I loved all of the theories and the feel/aesthetic of that comeback 💜

[@swetha3140]

I wish I was an Army at that era :( I hope BTS does something like that again tho. I would love to read a book and then link it with their mvs, etc and find out the rest of the story in their storyline.

[@nobitanobi3475]

@@swetha3140 they still are lmaoo . The MOTS albums were based on Carl Jung's MOTS...

[@bonumonu5534]

For real I think blood sweat and tears era is still unmatched in the story and "thought behind" kind of sense. So much of things to analyse and connect! That was THE ART in its purest form

[@yourbias3722]

I hate to say this but you really just had to be there

[@fjoralbagolikja9478]

Here is another little fact, in "Butterfly"(a song assumed from some fans to be about suicide prevention) RM references Kafka on the Shore with "My Kafka on the shore, Please don't go to the forest over there". And the forest that he is referencing is the escape from violence, this other world in the depths of the forest is a refugee from the violence of the real world for the spirits of those who have experienced trauma. And this just makes me love BTS and RM even more. I loved your video and I also noticed the progression from the start of the video with "I love their aesthetic and dance" to their world and lyrics and universe is so deep and just makes you want to know more. Others might have said it before but BTS songs and lyrics and albums in general tell their personal story and they are not just written from them but they also tell their story and you find yourself seen in those lyrics and stories of youth, growth, loneliness, self-hate and self-love. It's just so wholesome!

[@elleruirui]

Has BTS ever actually said that Butterfly is about suicide prevention? If they have, let me know. I just don’t want any misinformation to spread anymore than it has been.

[@serpentine5328]

@@elleruirui their songs are poetry, it would be an essay if they literally wrote "butterfly means suicide prevention", its called using metaphors

[@shereencrafts746]

@@serpentine5328 they still didn't say that. this new 'meaning' people have found only started recently please. u were not here when the song released or the years after. people have only started saying this in the past year. you are fine to interpret the song the way u wish but dont label it as a fact that its about suicide prevention, because not once has it been specified.

[@shereencrafts746]

OP literally said 'Here is another little fact, in "Butterfly", a song about suicide prevention' say interpretation or how u view it. it is not a FACT

[@fjoralbagolikja9478]

@@shereencrafts746 I said fact because I was following the video format, when he was giving the common interpretations about the songs. When I wrote fact I did mean that the line used referencing Kafka on the Shore, not the fact that the song is about suicide prevention. I should have worded it differently I agree, but I always thought that was the prevalent interpretation. I love that songs like this are left to our interpretation and we can find meaning for them, be that personal one or something we found from others. I had assumed that the correlation with the Kafka on the Shore line about not wanting to let someone go to an "in-between" meant not wanting to let someone grieve alone and leave this word. But thank you for the discussion, I am going to change the suicide prevention part to an intepretation instead.

[@lynnres8626]

I think you’d really love RM’s mixtape titled “Mono”, this mixtape speaks about his own feelings of inferiority. It is quite simply an album were he pours all of his feelings at the time into.

[@shookymakesmeshook470]

Agreed, mono was so beautiful and lyrically a masterpiece

[@klaudiasob7325]

Omg, I love that tape. It's so comforting, it's like a blanket for soul. Am the only one who feel it this way?

[@모아미솔방울]

Me: *watches a man fall in love with Kim Namjoon's mindbogglingly sexy brain over the course of twenty or so minutes* Also me: "I have found another comfort channel"

[@mahima3452]

"one big existential crisis" describes almost every song namjoon has written abvfdfasdhfjfv

[@samsam-rd7vz]

For real though😂

[@ktsleeve]

You NAILED it. 💜 Namjoon the Seeker of Enlightenment; Namjoon the Lover of Nature; Namjoon the Philsopher; Namjoon the Patron of the Arts & Artists. Namjoon whose life created a new word: Namjooning. 🌿🌳🐚🌛🌾🍂🐳🐬🦀

[@aparna12242]

You need to check out their lyrics. Also, they have the entire “Map of the soul” series that takes inspiration from Carl Jung’s “Map of the soul” and jungian philosophies. Their lyrics and concepts run waay deeper than what most people think. To those who don’t give the boys a chance they just seem like your typical boyband with flashy clothes writing songs with catchy beats but that is faaar from the truth. What they create is absolutely mind blowing as it is multilayered both musically, conceptually and visually. They aren’t your typical “boy band” and those who reduce them to the stereotypical image of a boy band is simply missing out. So please do react to some of their lyrics and you can find “explanation” videos to their songs/mvs as well. Check out Map of the soul series “Persona” , “Ego” and “Shadow”, RM’s mixtape “Mono”, “The truth untold”, Magic Shop”, “Singularity” to begin with I guess.

[@marija-katarinajukic708]

Yeeees!!! I was planning to write the exact same thing! I got into them because of the album Map of the Soul 7. The whole album and all the lyrics are just WOW, but personally, Persona, Shadow, Ego, Black swan and Ugh blew me away with their depth. It really is ART.

[@meou_meou]

True true!!!

[@jczmyg]

Yes! this this this^^^

[@kosmicx]

!!!!!

[@gabbysirmans3488]

Yep

[@zahray9170]

Someone becoming an army because of the books namjoon recommends, sounds about right -- which base have we not covered yet

[@estrella4429]

😂 ikr

[@afternoonmeshes]

that was me 😭✋ i became a army because of namjoon and his literary taste

[@zahray9170]

@@afternoonmeshes honestly good for you good for you!! Welcome to the family haha

[@afternoonmeshes]

@@zahray9170 oh, I've been here since 2016/2017! But thank you, you're very sweet 🥺

[@zahray9170]

@@afternoonmeshes OMG DKSKF my bad sorry haha

[@zero0clock]

Wow, this actually made me so happy. You don't have to like BTS or their music, but being respectful and open-minded towards them is all I ask for. Having someone finally see them as artists and acknowledge that they're not just some crazy boyband, but that they actually put a lot of thought and detail into their work is amazing. Thank you so much for this! We need more open-minded people like you! :)

[@_Zaaiinaab]

I just wanna say you're so impressive. Like, this may seem redundant as you are a literature graduate but you are so WELL READ and it shows, and it's amazing! Also, if you have the time or are interested I suggest you look into BTS lyrics, Namjoon co writes a lot of the songs and he is an incredible lyricist and I think you will appreciate seeing how his brain works.

[@jack_edwards]

You’re so kind, thank you!!

[@reylitabiok5650]

More like Joon is most of the time the main writer and others are co writers, but it all depends !

[@StarryDaydreamer]

Yes! Petition for a video about this please!!! Would love to see your insight on the lyrics now that you know the background story that they were based on.

[@carovp8219]

Actually they all are lyricists, it is just that Namjoon and Suga are doing it and composing for the longest time

[@dishacantcook]

No wonder why people are getting namjoon biased.. he is literally a genius. His words and his lyrics are really inspiring. Thank you for this video💜

[@sunshine_of_csy]

He is not the leader for nothing.💜

[@moonchild7597]

Before I get to know BTS well.. I fell in love with the lyrics.. And then I found out that namjoon writes the lyrics so I realized I fell in love him even before knowing him.

[@dishacantcook]

@@moonchild7597 same and when I heard his speech at UNICEF I just became a fan!

[@nurezzaty9253]

Even all the members looked up to RM.. There would be no BTS without him.. 💜& we all are inspired by him 💜 Btw i didnt know this channel with content like this exist and that i need it.. Definitely will follow up 😌

[@sunshine_of_csy]

@@nurezzaty9253 Its true tho,But not only RM, my bias Hobi is also underrated.But,without them the team is nothing.They see each other equally but some people can't.

[@raplineaddict]

I appreciate the fact that he gave his OWN opinion of the books instead of just saying that it's good because RM recommended them and to make a good reputation in front of ARMYs. Most ppl do that. Thankyou for being honest

[@aahana4931]

and the big brain moment that was the spring day MV analysis

[@raplineaddict]

@@aahana4931 THAT'S WHERE I REALIZED MY WHOLE LIFE WAS A LIE.

[@ellie9584]

ok i'm a new army so i don't really know that much but i was genuinely mind blown when i saw how much detail there was in their mv's. like you don't even realise until you understand the references. even if you are not a fan, you have to accept that the effort and thought bts put into their work is incredible. everything has a meaning

[@viamy08]

Yeah I didn't know at this time the references I'm mind blown 💜💜

[@analuzzz11]

pls this guy really said "give me your undivided attention for 20 minutes" The way he talks and expresses himself is really engaging. I became a fan

[@nikkikwong1091]

RM is not just a idol RM is a lifestyle

[@yinhannasjournal]

He’s such a role model. 🥺❤️

[@pinkcat5011]

Y'all we are missing the opportunity to call this #JoonRecommendations (like June Recommendations......but Namjoon O_O

[@klaudiasob7325]

Pornesian Parapiooo😂💜

[@nikkikwong1091]

@@klaudiasob7325 classic

[@hanithainti7212]

Well said😌

[@stellaforde8378]

"It's essentially one big existential crisis" - who would have thought you were talking about a book!

[@jack_edwards]

honestly how i'd describe my 2020

[@kazilifana7724]

@@jack_edwards looks like you did something useful in 2020☺☺

[@Adreenarizal]

this is why i stan taylor swift n bts cuz the way thy put attention to the details of their art n their literature references combined w social issues n other stuffs are jst amazing ppl should rly dive in into their references n lyircs n rly get to know stuffs instead of jst judging them by how mny exes taylor hv or how crazy armys are

[@nikitagigigeorge8572]

Ikr!!!! Both these artists have such a high range of artistic intelligence I'm so happy to be a fan if both!!....

[@ananya-cl6qe]

just saw a man gradually falling in love with namjoon just by reading the books he recommended that's beautiful

[@empanadani]

Kpop idols try hard to maintain their image, so they don't really comment on social and political issues often or they're just completely ignorant of these. So it makes me feel good that RM reads these sorts of books. I feel like he can be trusted not to do or say something stupid.

[@lady_raineidv9297]

Same. I'd trust Joon with my life, that's how much I look up to him. He's such a role model. I don't trust him with cooking though, lmao.

[@hazuki689]

@@lady_raineidv9297 hii i’m a twosetter too!!

[@lady_raineidv9297]

@@hazuki689 omg hiiii!!!

[@jamais_vu3]

bts have made songs with social commentaries so many times. they have even risked getting blacklisted by the government. they constantly have made songs on social commentaries. but the best part is that they dont do it out of some obligation. like their songs are always based on their own current feelings (eg all their songs in 2020 and 2021 were the outcome of their own pandemic feelings) and they break so many kpop norms of having 'concepts'.

[@ot7namjoonandot5yeonjun43]

Like seriously I trust a man that I have never met so much that if joon will knock at my window at 4 am and will say' come out' I will say' ok lemme grab my hoodie' Not mine words though 💜💜💜

[@sarahsubba4866]

I did NOT expect you to dive into their MV’s and theories. The effort and genuineness in this! I was almost emotional. Thank you for this 🥰 As an army I’ve witnessed so much xenophobia and skepticism towards BTS that this is the fresh breath of air I needed 🥺 I’m subscribed and very invested in your channel now ❤️ more power to you 💕

[@chadliwijdane5789]

One of BTS’s member Yoongi once said « you would love BTS’s music if you listen to it without prejudice » and believe me he is 100% correct. They are one the best artists in our generation !

[@fatimaqureshi4984]

I wish they had gotten their well-deserved grammys, namjoon deserves so much love, support and appreciation!

[@agalyakotigala3909]

When people say they hate BTS, I honestly feel sad for them. If only they took the time to understand the lyricism and art behind their work. You are sure to be blown away by the brilliancy and allegory in each and every scene and lyric from their songs.

[@melinadandrea5680]

And for no reason they say they're overrated....like man at least check upon who they actually are before judging them and making homophobic jokes on them

[@peachylemonade4319]

@@melinadandrea5680 Ikr. Saying overrated when they don't even know a thing about bts.. doesn't make sense to me. Like, how can u even judge that someone is overrated w/o knowing them 👁👄👁

[@ericcartman8265]

honestly most people hate them because they're asian.

[@agalyakotigala3909]

@@ericcartman8265 and because “they dress like girls” or “put on makeup” :|

[@ericcartman8265]

@@agalyakotigala3909 exactly! and some white dude (for example, harry styles no hate btw) does the same thing he gets called "revolutionary" "breaking stereotypes" etc, and if they do the SAME thing, they are called slurs...

[@vanimetta1121]

I am always afraid of what people have to say about bts when they are not army but your way with words is truly so wonderful to hear and I love your analysis of the music videos along side the books. Thank you for looking into their work

[@jack_edwards]

i had no idea their music was so conceptual -- so cool!

[@vanimetta1121]

@@jack_edwards Yes! and you should defo look into the BU (bts universe) and their books bc it’s awesome!

[@ellamorton1851]

@@jack_edwards JACK CAN I RECCOMEND U SOME BTS SONGS

[@nancySIX]

@Umamaheswari G it’s all good honestly, just click something. But if you want to start somewhere one of my fave albums is love yourself: tear.

[@dreamworld6781]

@Umamaheswari G if you want emotional songs listen to SPRING DAY /epiphany / dimple / magic shop. rap - MIC DROP /cypher pt2/ dadeng / ugh Most popular hits of bts - FAKE LOVE lDOL/ bwl / make it right and one of the best mv and song is BLACK SWAN . Watch its orchestral version also very beautiful

[@youlikethischainthreedolla8498]

About the nature book: Namjoon is a huge fan of nature. He loves it.

[@danielanaimanova3161]

As an ARMY who has written a whole 70 page long paper on the symbolism behind BTS´ lyrics and music videos, I am so happy to see someone outside of the fandom taking so much time to actually get into this topic with an open mind and making an effort to understand how do the books reflect in the music and music videos. I was excited about this video since you announced and I am so happy that you (I haven't finished the video yet) seem to enjoy what Namjoon has recommended. It makes my ARMY heart so happy and trust me, there is so much more and it is so fascinating. Keep up the great work, Jack, I hope you are having a wonderful time!

[@jack_edwards]

OMG where can i read that paper ?!!??!?!?!

[@elkieelkie]

Drop the google doc 😎🥰

[@danielanaimanova3161]

@@jack_edwards Sadly i am not English, but from Czech republic, so the paper is in czech :( But trust me when I tell you that the symbolism and their message that they want to portray in particular series of albums is shown in their album covers, choreography and the music videos. I hope you'll continue to enjoy BTS and, if you meant it, welcome in the ARMY fandom!

[@danielanaimanova3161]

@@elkieelkie It is in czech, so I am not sure if it would be helpful to anyone ajdbhajs 😭

[@terezaholkova3145]

@@danielanaimanova3161 hi, I would LOVE to read it if I can. I’m from czech too:)

[@armysenpai2595]

I am waiting for the day namjoon releases a book whether about himself or whatever he wants to write

[@TutySaca]

I believe someday he will release it. Even yoongi. I hope he can release a motivation book and physiology book too

[@AndreaDiaz-rc3iy]

amen

[@LM-sv9cd]

If it is about bts' story, it will be smth like... Chapter 1: Yoongi

[@misomar7193]

@@LM-sv9cd AHAHAHA TRUEE

[@yinhannasjournal]

Same ngl. 😭✋🏻

[@MexineseFamily]

This was so inspiring to watch!! Amazing content 💜

[@ZeltickCrow]

Omg, hello familia! Never knew I’d find you here. Honestly I love literature so I came to this amazing channel, and now that I see you guys here I love you two even more haha. (My worlds just collided , and I’m mindblown 🤯)

[@yuxuanong3666]

It's OPPA and UNNIE familia 💜💜

[@Johnrafaelquieta]

Hello Familia

[@amalhentati212]

familia we even watch the same things!

[@no_pressure7130]

oh my... what a pleasant surprise familia🥰

[@soobinsdolphin]

I love this video because im a huge fan of jack, and a huge army. The best thing about this is seeing comments from my two different communities collide, army saying "i came for namjoon but stayed for the book review" and jack's subscribers saying "i came for jack but now i wanna know more about bts". Like it makes me so soft that we can be respectful to each other and share thought even though we're from completely different corners of the internet.

[@avocados1707]

EXACTLYY and even just the fact that people are being respectful about either sides period like i didnt know how deprived i was 😭✋

[@moonshadow3736]

@Niamh Well said, my friend

[@michellehorstman8888]

On the Spring Day music video explanation, there is something else you should know about this song. Spring Day, hasn’t left the Korean Charts (like the top 100 or top 50 charts) since it came out. It has struck the Korean nation so much that it hasn’t left the charts since 2017. Imagine making such a beautiful homage to those that have passed. They will be remembered and we wont forget. Because the song is STILL on the korean charts.

[@serpentine5328]

Thats my fav song and i had no idea it was about ferry incident, i though it was about losing friends and wanting to die and be reunited, wait- oh

[@edacankaya6075]

I am also a literature major as well as an ARMY, and it's my last semester. Sadly, I'm going through a massive reading slump, and I was feeling no desire to read at all for months, I was just forcing myself to read only the books that i must to pass my classes. But luckily, I found this video as a KZbin recommendation, and I'm FINALLY craving to read again! Thanks to you Jack, and of course our leader RM :). I loved your video, and how you interpreted the books, watched MVs, searched about them... Keep up the good work, and welcome to ARMY!! Borahae 💜💜

[@shagun1222]

Girl same. Same last sem . Just reading because I have to. This video is so inspiring

[@Nicole-bo5ey]

I feel the same huhu. I grew a burning passion in reading because it secures me in an oasis of comfort and it is so calming to be immersed in another world. I’m an incoming college taking English literature as my major, but I started questioning my decisions. This video alsoooo made me want to pick up a book again. I’m rooting for youuu, Army! All my best wishes are virtually sent haha.

[@edacankaya6075]

@@Nicole-bo5ey aww it's so cute, thanks a lot :) i'm glad this video motivated you too. I hope you make the right decisions, and i'm wishing all the best for you! 💜

[@edacankaya6075]

@@shagun1222 ikr!!

[@JodyKWaddell]

I’m sad to say there was a day when I judged “the book by the cover” and discouraged my daughter from listening to those “strange boys” (debut period). Since that time, I have repented of my stupidity, looked into who these men/boys are and I literally love them. They are deeper than they’re given credit for and more genuine than my own neighbors. I adore them. This video was such a pleasure to watch and gave credit where due. I will be reading through the list myself. Thank you for doing the research and tying the MV to the writings. I really appreciate your efforts. You are delightful! Well done. PS I hope these videos help secure that literary job 😉

[@pennyregister9651]

Couldn’t agree with you more. I love music and last year my husband kept saying “what do you know about BTS, they get a billion impressions every time they post anything”. I started on the path to discover them and their music. They are brilliant, handsome men, especially Namjoon. They are grateful to their families and fans, respectful of women, and thoughtfully address issues of loneliness, stress, and growing up. Besides being accomplished musicians and dancers, they are athletes, producers, cooks and comedians. Very inspiring!

[@noemoon4277]

Or he can be his own boss someday and maybe he can write his own book! :)

[@Shawtycheira]

I respect that you actually took the time to write this and tell us that you basically found your judgedment in the beginning unfair as you later found out that they had more to offer than by just looking at the surface and instead take sometime to do some research first. Really love this, more people should do it so thank you

[@TheReversJeans]

To be fair, they've come a long way since debut. We are all suprised they got any attention back then, they tried really hard to go the hip-hop route and weren't really true to themselves yet. But they evolved so much as artists and have the freedom to be themselves now.

[@mafe1220]

He just explained Spring Day better than everyone

[@xalxvx]

tw // suicide mention Kafka on The Shore was also referenced in BTS’ Butterfly. The lyrics said “My Kafka on the Shore, don’t go to those woods over there”. In the book, it was implied that stepping into the forest means voluntary death and so ARMYs have interpreted the song lyrics as losing someone you hold dear to suicide.

[@elaineelaine6418]

So, Kafka on the Shore is actually a book by Haruki Murakami, which is an absolute masterpiece. Like any of Murakami's book, I have no idea what it's about, and I'm not interested to find out, I just enjoy the journey, the absurd and the poetry. Not really sure if it has anything to do with the real Kafka (aside for the protagonist sharing his name). Also, I haven't listened to Butterfly, but I encourage you read the book and figure out the forest bit (if you want additional reading, in Murakami's book it's probably inspired by Kenzaburo Oē's novel, so enjoy ^^) Please check out the Content Warnings though, notably around sexuality, the book reflexts a lot on incest (it's about the myth of Oedipus). But yeah, what I would get from this lyrics in particular is either he's talking about the book itself, its poesy and absurdity and more importantly, its journey, and the woods are a place of transformation,but you don't know if what comes out is good or bad, and you don't want to go in fear of loosing the status quo; or it could be about the character of Kafka, about half truths and dreams and realities blending, about taboos and what's forbidden, what's hidden, what's real, and, in the end, if it matters - how? But i don't think it's about suicide. Death, certainly, but not suicide.

[@godofdestruction2075]

If you actually read Kafka on the shore, you may remember the time Oshima (i think?) brought Kafka to the cabin on the forest. The phrase you mentioned may be Oshima telling Kafka not to good in the woods.

[@godofdestruction2075]

@Aliaa Ithink that it is about one wanting another to be safe, to not get lost in the big forest of our thoughts

[@lbn6486]

I read Kafka on the shore when I was in my mid-teens. Didn't quite understand it very well until I was a bit older but it did introduce me to Franz Kafka who is my favourite author of all time. No one's work touched me as emotionally as his did.

[@xalxvx]

@@elaineelaine6418 ah that's interesting! well this song in particular is tied down with the Bangtan Universe fictional storyline that exists within multiple BTS music videos. The story is about a boy who tries to go through multiple parallel universes & time loops to save his friends from death, which mostly are from suicide, while losing himself in the process. and as such most of us think the lyrics do connect with death as you described

[@hollybyrne5337]

Never really listened to BTS but after watching this video I'll definitely be listening to them!

[@jikookiest]

Thank you for giving them a chance ☺

[@BebeNicole]

Please watch spring day mv explained. It's mind-blowing.Also Namjoon is the one who wrote the lyric of this song. It's masterpiece.

[@yourbibillyhills]

thank you so much for giving them a listen! and i recommend you to read the translation lyrics from doolsetbangtan.wordpress.com/ to help you understand and appreciate their lyrics😊

[@zai91b]

as you should omg !!

[@jules6731]

@@yourbibillyhills I second (and recommend!) fan translations such as doolsetbangtan, doyoubangtan and muish’s ramblings as well. BTS’ lyrics reference many sociocultural aspects which might not be familiar to someone who’s not South Korean, so fan translations go more in depth than your literal genius translation.

[@idagranhj2335]

"i have googled it, and i have taken a quiz" i- i'm so proud of u

[@yinhannasjournal]

😂😂

[@guesswho-f3w]

Yes 😁

[@safa7364]

I also did it when I was a new army😂

[@mikellyartisan1384]

One of the things that I really appreciate about Namjoon is that he always strives to better himself. After getting a lot of backlash on War of Hormone (which was really objectifying of women), he strove to better his own understanding of the female experience and what women went through. He even had a Women & Gender’s professor look over his lyrics to make sure they weren’t inherently misogynistic. If there’s one idol who definitely deserves to be a role model, it’s Namjoon. His mind is just so complex and rich in knowledge. I’m glad that he helped lead BTS to where they are today.

[@jennifergreen6510]

The thing is, there was nothing wrong with the lyrics to the song. Plenty of songs by female artists are like that. Look at Shoop by Salt-n-Pepa, for instance. No one says anything about female artists talking about how hot guys are in their lyrics.

[@tiff9464]

war of hormone a BANGER tho

[@jennifergreen6510]

@@tiff9464 Yep. One of my fave songs of theirs. They put something out 8 years ago and it made sense at the time.

[@aishwaryaahirrao]

*This is for ppl who don't know much of WOH controversy under this comment* ..So about the "m-i-s-o-g-y-n-i-s-t" lyrics & the controversy...let me clear the misunderstanding k-popies & some ARMYs hv..this was blown out of proportion by h@ters & Antis to create drama that time, which worked cuz k-popies & media latched on it... *This is going to long a$$ comment* Let's be real, War of Hormones wasn't misogynistic. It was just an honest song about what guys in that age range go through. They were straight up saying that they struggle with their hormones when they see a pretty girl, *and guess what? That's just being honest.* 👁️👄👁️ The title itself gives a clear idea to how they see it. A war. An internal conflict. And it's true to what guys in their late teens and early 20s go through. Bangtan has always been about talking about their experiences and being a voice of people their age. The entire album, Dark & Wild, was really just about the turmoils of young adulthood. In the title of the album too, you can already tell what the sentiment was going to be. The first 3 albums spoke about school and issues of teens. And then from there, the darker days of coming to terms with adulthood. And then the HYYH series. Everything was thematic with stories they wanted to tell as they go through life. Antis and fans of other groups were just grasping at straws to find something to shit on and unfortunately the media picked up on it and then some ARMY took it as truth and they themselves started talking as if the song was offensive. It isn't. We need to stop spreading this story as if BTS were misogynistic boys who needed to learn a lesson. Yes, Namjoon has learned a lot from the experience and has gone out of his way to speak to experts in women's studies, but I'm sure that whole ordeal also caused him unnecessary pain. *Now, My personal take on this:* I don't see anything wrong with the lyrics of the song. All boys go through puberty and the things BTS sung in this are just reflective of their experience going through that phase in their lives. This is the reason I love them and their songs.. they didn't hide anything and covered all the feelings/thoughts of a person who is in his/her adolescent...one can see them growing up from then till today…I personally don't find the lyrics offensive and “most” Armys as well..as I agree they are expressing the struggles of dealing with hormonal changes in adolescence, and I'm sorry but sexual attraction is the number one pressing issue in most hormonal teens regardless of gender. There's a couple of issues I take with people who found this offensive. First, the double standard. You can't tell me young women were purely innocent in their thoughts and feelings as they watched these young men dance and sing, they just didn't make a song about it, at least not publicly. Secondly, the entire concept BigHit wanted from BTS is a representation of the youth culture and the issues youth deal with as seen and heard through the lyrics and music of BTS, and of course everyone has or will experience sexual attraction. Yes, they refer to see through clothing and high heels etc, but I've seen hundreds of posts referring to JK's abs, Jimin's body rolls and shoulder "accidents" Tae's tongue...you get the idea, and while many comments aren't necessarily teens it's not a problem. There can only be an issue if the lyrics were implying that I'm only attracted to girls who wear heels and sheer clothing, not sneakers and sweats. Anyone who has experienced adolescence knows however that if they're sexually attracted to someone the person could easily walk around in a potato sack and an adolescent would still be entranced. A lot of people were offended by that line, "Girls are equations and us men just do them". Personally, I took it as "do them" meant they were puzzles to be solved, not a sexual act. RM was honestly shocked that people were offended by the lyrics and that they could be considered misogynistic. It was definitely a learning experience for him. He apologized and has since run his lyrics through a few professionals in women's studies before releasing a new song. They don't really release songs like this any more. *But to that a korean Army said translation in English were a bit off, which lead to misunderstandings and explained it saying : “I was kinda surprised it's translation was "do" because that part "do them" CAN actually sound offensive to some people, because the meaning of that word 'do' is not clear. However I can clearly say that it's not meant that way, and Korean version lyrics tell that. Words are more specific, and not controversial in Korean version lyrics, because it doesn't say 'do. That part in Korean is 여자들은 방정식 우리 남자들은 해 which says we men are 해 is a word for mathematics, and it means the 'answer/the final number'. So it means they solve. the complex minds of the girls. 해 DOES have the meaning of 'do' too, but its not appropriate to translate this part of the lyrics that way, because if u say it means "do them, it doesn't fit the sentence there. Since there's no Objectives for that Verb 'do' and that's... kinda awkward. plus. the context and meaning of the whole sentence is talking abt mathematics and Equations so what u said is true. It doesn't mean sexual way”* it's freaking mistranslation, if you don't belive me ask any korean, not only k-army but any Korean.. it was done to sabotage BTS's career..💀 BTS hv made few mistakes unknowingly early in their career and said things which can be considered offensive, as they were young but they hv re-educated themselves, apologized and never repeated the mistakes again..but I hv seen many k-popies and so called Multi Armys twisting many things because of that..take for example this song.. it's blown out of the proportion just to cause drama..and they were sadly successful in that..haters/antis tried every lil thing to bring BTS down & sabotage their career ngl.. *Now last but not the least* ..when this controversy happened, When joon apologized, The one thing that struck me about that was a part in the statement saying they took so long to apologize because they wanted to understand what exactly was the issue... And that part I definitely liked, I've never been a fan of blanket apologies.. BTS always try to understand the problem & try to improve..joon apologized because as the controversy was over "ppl were offended", he apologized for the ppl who were offended by this song, that doesn't mean the song was wrong, he was kind enough to take responsibility for it, ofc bighit & BTS took this issue (which was blown out of proportion) and apologized so that this unwanted drama surrounding the song would end (isn't that common sense) he sincerely apologised..but that doesn't mean that WOH is misogynist or objectifying women..like the title itself clears it out! "War of hormones" what ppl expected form this song to be like seriously?! Ppl who still want to believe that WOH is objectifying women are really dumb for me..like be practical..that's all i can say🤷🏻‍♀️ *I'm out* 🚶🏻‍♀️🚶🏻‍♀️🚶🏻‍♀️

[@GoldenWreck]

@@jennifergreen6510 But you still don't get to decide how other people are personally affected by the lyrics, even if to you there was nothing wrong with them. People did in fact feel them to be misogynistic, and that's completely valid. So for you to resort to whataboutism and dismiss the lyrics as "nothing wrong" is giving bad taste.

[@AnaFerreira-kp2ec]

I’m really happy that people are starting to see BTS with other eyes, they are not just 7 Asians. They are Asians as well as people, and they deserve to be known by the good things they are trying to show to armys and the society and general! Really happy you’re an Army now! And because i love to read I’ll follow the recommendations one day. And by the way you talk we can clearly see that you studied literature it’s impressive to see you talk! Thanks a lot for this video 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@justcoco4880]

Thank you for your amazing words! 💜

[@AnaFerreira-kp2ec]

@@justcoco4880 💜

[@7musketeers761]

💜Nice words

[@321qwzx123]

I actually got into BTS because i stumbled upon RM's book recommendations back in 2017 and saw he has a very similar taste to me, so I looked into BTS and i've been in this ARMY life ever since :D so welcome Jack, we're happy to have you!

[@Ninjacatmuffin]

I don't stan any Kpop groups, but I can tell that Namjoon has some good taste. Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and The Stranger are classics! Even if you didn't fully enjoy The Stranger, I recommend trying The Plague (also by Camus). It's an existential exploration of a town under, you guessed it, a plague scare.

[@taniesaz2230]

Namjoon has an exquisite taste in books, i don't read much but i got hooked when he recommended "Almond" by Won Pyung Sohn!! it was read by 2 bts members (RM of course and SUGA). They read it when they were on a semi-vacation

[@AndreaDiaz-rc3iy]

@@taniesaz2230 thanks for the recomendation

[@taniesaz2230]

@@AndreaDiaz-rc3iy thank you! i cried while reading this book :(

[@arandomperson7813]

u don't have to stan kpop groups to say namjoon has good taste lmao.

[@Mariajbh2]

Existentialism is a pathological phylosopy, same with Idealism (the worst is german idealism, the Nazism is the fruit of German idealism thought), only ill people brainwashin their readers. People, we careful with it

[@Star-LitTarot]

Yes these men require more support an appriciation than they already get. And hearing you appreciate them putting in efforts into their aesthetic and message is so wholesome

[@Maryam-Linax]

I've literally never been a bts fan and I watched this video and now all of a sudden i love bts.

[@snehaa2018]

Isn't that amazing?

[@mistymere]

@@snehaa2018 Omg I love your name 😂💜💜

[@snehaa2018]

@@mistymere thanks meredith💜

[@ameenachowdhury2236]

as u should

[@yinhannasjournal]

😂😂

[@keshi1939]

*facts* this video is in namjoon’s search history.

[@sekantungkentang]

How did you know?

[@KimChi-fg6wc]

Is it true?

[@donghyucks]

@@KimChi-fg6wc its a joke

[@hafsaaj639]

probably

[@JLynnEchelon]

I really admire RM for recommending Kim Ji-Young Born 1982. I live in Korea and it's insane how much hate men have for that book. Like, I have been threatened with violence for owning it. Frankly, I didn't really enjoy it, but I am glad it exists. Also, moved here six weeks before Sewol. It's awful that people didn't talk more about it.

[@Sb-kx9ne]

I was just thinking about the amount of hate they threw at Irene for reading the book and I came across your comment

[@jungkooks_microwavephobia]

Thinking of the time ppl burned posters of Irene from Red Velvet for reading it. Like if that doesn’t teach Namjoon something about double standards😂

[@sushiatbp]

@@jungkooks_microwavephobia people really burned Irene's posters over reading a book? oh my god

[@helena0328]

Korean here. I'm commenting out of concern that this comment got liked by the uploader and a lot of likes despite it misrepresenting and being wrong about Korea. First off, Koreans got their president IMPEACHED after the Sewol incident. Your claim that people didn't talk about it enough is completely false because Korean people still talk about it and they talked about it SO MUCH that it led to investigation into president Park's inactions and further improprieties in office. It also led to sweeping investigations into a variety of institutions in Korea. Also, although it's widely known that Kim Ji Young Born, 1982 has incited controversy in Korea between men and women, I've NEVER heard of people being THREATENED WITH VIOLENCE for owning the book?! You bet it'd be on the news and I would've heard about it. 한국말 할 줄은 아시는지? To the uploader: I know that you had good intentions when making this sort of video and liking this sort of comment, but please be more careful about where you bring attention to because there's a lot of misinformation and accusations online about Korea in general which comes with the popularity of its cultural contents. I also wanted to add that you mentioned in the video that the students were drilled into being obedient, but that was a stereotype that Western media created about Korean students that Koreans highly criticized at the time. If you put yourself into the shoes of those *young* students in that sort of dangerous situation, most would listen to the captain and their teachers. Even a lot of the teachers also died from this incident because they listened to the captain at first. Because who wouldn't if you're vulnerable on a sinking ship? Other than these inaccuracies, I enjoyed the video for the most part. :)

[@chere100]

@@helena0328 Yeah, most kids are stupid. I would have only listened initially. When I realized we were sinking I would have definitely tried to get topside. Being inside a sinking ship is no different from being inside a closed coffin. I don't want to be in a closed coffin.

[@hiralgorasia3548]

Namjoon also recommended ’Almond’ in his list of recommendations. If it is available near you, I ,personally too, strongly recommend to read that one. It is such a heartwarming story. The author is Sohn Wonpyung.

[@baudolino2727]

What is it about?

[@hiralgorasia3548]

@@baudolino2727 it’s about a little boy who is born with a condition called “alexithymia”. It is a condition where a part of your brain (amygdala) which is responsible for expressing feelings like fear, anger, happiness, is not well developed. And because of that, this little boy is unable to feel any of those emotions even after his grandmother and mom die in a tragic incident. After their demise, he’s left all alone to figure out and survive in the world with his condition. The author has framed the whole story really very well. Its her debut novel and I am already her fan.

[@baudolino2727]

@@hiralgorasia3548 thanks 😊

[@hiralgorasia3548]

@@baudolino2727 If you get to read it, let me know how you liked it! 😅

[@Dashomin]

@@hiralgorasia3548 I just brought i5 after your recommendation! and obviously RM's! I can't wait to read!

[@slothyyy9047]

I DROPPED EVERYTHING WHEN I SAW THE NOTIF AND TITLE OHMYGOD

[@afifahramadina8667]

SAMEEE!!!

[@jack_edwards]

thank u for watching !!

[@mik0759]

There was a KZbin video with psychologists discussing BTS' song Magic Shop and how it was based on a memoir Into the Magic Shop by James Doty MD. The doctors were talking about the concept of the Magic Shop in the book for used by the neurosurgeon for psychological healing. Knowing it was based on a book and seeing the BTS members read books and not just a bunch of shallow celebrities made me admire them even more.

[@mimurosoop784]

Honestly seeing so many armys appreciating him for looking into the meaning and theories makes me very happy. I wish the new armys would also get into the theories, it would help them appreciate bts's artistry so much.

[@lenaelisabeth]

The other members (especially the youngest) often talk about how they look up to RM because of his smarts and lyricism. This video just proves how amazing he is even more

[@sakshibansal6134]

He recently recommended a book called "Almond" by Sohn-won Pyong. It's a really good book. You should give it a try too

[@maisarah9453]

when did he say it ?

[@ines2722]

umm can i know where does he recommend books? what social media?

[@sakshibansal6134]

@@ines2722 He randomly talks about books in his vlives.

[@simonsays7687]

I don’t remember him directly recommending it but he did say it’s good)

[@bequietdontcry6179]

@@ines2722 In "In the Soop" Namjoon and Yoongi were talking about "Almond" and both agreed that it's a good book. But I don't remember what episode it was

[@caitlinm0929]

Namjoon is literally unreal... He's talented, successful, cultured, incredibly smart, multilingual, super handsome, loves nature, really cute, is diplomatic, and passionate. I cannot express how much I love him.

[@Mikadiaries]

he’s so amazing, i aspire to become like him

[@valentino1646]

7:37 holy fucking shit i will never call bts meh and not as deep as everyone claims it to be ever again in my life. I'm so taken aback right now wtfffff. I'm actually crying omg I can't believe i never took this group serious enough to leave such an impactful message. Their new music isn't really my cup of tea, I like their older stuff more, but I have the utmost respect for them now.

[@JK-zy8vj]

Well what do they say about the books

[@cookiejar.mp3]

as an army this is so nice to see!! I wish more people took their artistry seriously

[@prisharai7225]

lol if you tell me the songs you like I can recommend some for you by them!

[@bahnisikhadey5346]

dive more into the backstory behind their music videos from the hyyh era like run, fire, i need u etc. i think you will like those

[@bahnisikhadey5346]

bts stands for 방탄소년단 which means ‘bulletproof boyscouts’. this means that they are bulletproof against the prejudices towards the youth and they will protect us from it with their music. they have risked their career multiple times just because they wanted to stand by the truth

[@prerza]

this is the essence of their songs and its lyricism that i want everyone to see.

[@yutianfeng]

It's so strange how this man just makes me happy? He's smiley and polite??? Wtf

[@_bangtan_armyot7290]

When namjoon said: "I will prove to you guys" He didn't see this coming that people will get inspired by him not just by song but even the books he recommended LOUDER THAN BOMBS YEAHH

[@kingseokjin6]

BTS actually have an ongoing storyline in their music videos as well as short films, highlight reels, prologues, epilogues, a webtoon, notes, books and an upcoming show. spring day and blood sweat and tears is also apart of this storyline but they also have multiple meanings too, which you mentioned. they put in a lot of effort into their songs to create meaningful, authentic messages as well as their music videos which contain so much symbolism etc. i appreciate how much effort you put in yourself to understand this too! loved the video btw, i've been following you for years and never thought this day would come!!

[@cookiejar.mp3]

please the BU/HYYH storyline hurts me but it's so good 😭

[@puja7489]

RM is a genius , his major reading attitude and love for books across various fields adds to his dimension and depth of knowledge. BTS music videos references are mind blowing and it kind of hits me to the point it hurts how genuinely positive influence he has on me.

[@BoraBox7]

Same. this is how i realised how much i truly treasure bts

[@bookoffholicbookwart5945]

Now, this caught my attention asap. I have read most of the books recommended by namjoon since 2014, super hyped for this

[@jack_edwards]

woweeee -- he's recommended so many!!

[@bookoffholicbookwart5945]

@@jack_edwards yess, especially coming off age and search for meaning kinda books, I started reading them to understand what goes inside his head but ended up changing the philosophy of my life🤣

[@muzna4910]

@@bookoffholicbookwart5945 omg i really wanna know what goes in his head too😭 i read unbearable lightness of being that joon recommended but i couldn't understand the book or the characters..it also had a lot of sexually explicit content which i didn't enjoy so i didn't read further from joons list😔

[@kiaruna]

It’s so refreshing to have someone who finally extracts the sense out of their MVs, and not simply settles for the degree of aesthetic they put in. That was damn interesting and the hard work you put in this video is amazing. I am definitely going to read those books 📚 now and thank you so much for bringing out such great content !

[@alexlovessamoyeds]

Just a sidenote that's kind of sad: Whilst Namjoon is able to publicly read and recommend Kim Jiyoung born 1982, many female Kpop idols and even regular women in Korea are lambasted and called misandrists for identifying and recommending the same book, whereas Namjoon's declaration and sharing of it largely went unmentioned. Just goes to show the valid points made in it.

[@ioanacornea1691]

Namjoon is such an amazing person! I am so greatful everyday for the chance to hear his music and words, to see all the art works he is picturing and now we will also have his new album. I am greatful for BTS existence in general, they make our life better. And thank you Jack for the list of books.