Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s wife – A bold song that challenges taboos

“Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s wife” (이브, 프시케 그리고 푸른 수염의 아내) is a standout B-side track from LE SSERAFIM‘s first full-length album, “UNFORGIVEN,” released in May 2023. It quickly became a viral sensation and one of their most beloved songs, eventually receiving official promotions due to overwhelming fan demand.

Here’s a deep dive into the song:

1. Meaning and Themes

The title itself is a huge clue to the song’s core message. It refers to three iconic female figures from literature and mythology, all known for breaking forbidden rules and embracing curiosity:

• Eve: From the biblical story, who ate the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge. She represents curiosity, defiance against divine command, and the acquisition of knowledge (good and evil).
• Psyche: From Greek mythology, who was forbidden to look at her husband Eros’s face but did so out of curiosity, leading to trials but ultimately growth and deification. She represents forbidden curiosity, enduring hardship, and ultimate triumph.
• Bluebeard’s Wife: From the French folktale, who was forbidden to open a specific room in her husband’s castle but did so, discovering his dark secrets and eventually escaping his tyranny. She represents forbidden curiosity, uncovering truth, and liberation from oppressive control.

By invoking these figures, the song celebrates:

• Breaking the Rules: It’s an anthem for defying societal expectations, challenging norms, and not being afraid to cross boundaries.
• Embracing Curiosity: The lyrics encourage listeners to follow their innate curiosity, even if it leads to perceived “danger” or judgment.
• Female Empowerment: It champions women who take agency, make their own choices, and forge their own paths, regardless of consequences. It’s about finding freedom in transgression.
• Self-Acceptance: The line “I’m a mess, mess, mess, mess, mess, I’m a mess” can be interpreted as embracing imperfections and the chaos that comes with living authentically.

2. Musical Style and Sound

• Genre: The song is a high-energy blend of house, EDM, and dance-pop.
• Characteristics: It features a driving, pulsating bassline, catchy synth hooks, and a relentless beat that makes it incredibly danceable. The verses often have a more rhythmic, almost spoken-word delivery, building up to an explosive and infectious chorus.
• Vocal Performance: The members deliver the lines with confidence and attitude, fitting the fearless concept of LE SSERAFIM.

3. Performance and Choreography

• The choreography for “Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s wife” is incredibly dynamic, sharp, and powerful. It emphasizes the group’s strength and synchronized movements.
• It includes many iconic and memorable moves that contributed to its virality, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where fans and other idols frequently covered it.
• The stage presence for this song is always commanding, showcasing LE SSERAFIM’s reputation as a performance-oriented group.

4. Impact and Reception

• Viral Sensation: Despite being a B-side, it became one of the most talked-about K-Pop songs of 2023. Its distinct sound and empowering message resonated deeply with fans globally.
• Chart Success: It performed exceptionally well on domestic and international charts for a B-side, prompting Source Music (LE SSERAFIM’s agency) to eventually promote it officially alongside “UNFORGIVEN.”
• Remixes & Collaborations: Its popularity led to several official remixes, most notably an English version featuring American singer Demi Lovato and a Japanese version with Rina Sawayama & Awich. These collaborations further amplified its global reach. (Note: While “Perfect Night” is also a LE SSERAFIM song, “Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s wife” was featured on the digital single for “Perfect Night” with its Demi Lovato remix, rather than being remixed into “Perfect Night” itself.)
• Reinforced Image: The song perfectly solidified LE SSERAFIM’s “fearless” and confident image, showcasing their ability to deliver powerful concepts with a unique sound.

In essence, “Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s wife” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a bold declaration of independence, a celebration of curiosity, and an invitation to break free from limitations, all wrapped in a high-octane dance track.