BTS BLACK SWAN MV Meaning Explained: Breakdown and Analysis (also Corsets) 

When i started being interested in BTS theories, having a bias meant nothing to me, i needed to say this, i see them all special and beautiful in their own way, BTS is 7 and i'll always stan OT7💜

Girl you have me cracking up so much in this video today “when Jungkook and his corset leaves” 😂 😂 all your extra giffs in the corner 😂 I appreciate that you let us know how hard this MV is for you as was for us

Haha haha!! “Let’s focus on the corset. I mean the video.” That was good. Thanks for another explain.

In jimin's words: "Your mind, it amazes me"

Army theory crumbs from twitter + more background/depth + details nobody else noticed + coherent explanation tying everything together without over-interpreting = Bookish Theories 💕💜 My favorite BTS theory channel. My friends are hooked too!

Brilliant as always. So many good insights. I especially like how Suga comes to face his shadow directly and acknowledge it. And the “seven is one” - both obvious but also profound when stated as you did. The simple truths are often the most important. Thank you for not just assuming them but pointing them out.

*MY THEORIES ABOUT THIS MV* 0:44 did anyone notice Suga's left hand is not moving n he pointed out his shoulder when his left shoulder get dislocated after his accident n then he sang "that would be my first death" N we can see his recent performance where he is still in pain *THEORY 2* 2:16 *SUGA facing his shadow* Like he said in his solo interlude shadow that his shadow keep telling him that he cant run away from them n now in this video he is accepting them(shadow).

"I love ur sexy brain!" - 1of the 7 member said to RM. Now I'm saying it to u. Here, sexy means - the deepest, which inturn calculative & fact digger! 💖🥰

I am ridiculously late to the BTS party and Black Swan is what got me here. Your analysis gave me a clear understanding of why it was so compelling to me. You are brilliant! Thank you for helping me get more of an understanding for this wonderful group of men so quickly. ❤️ P S. I love your voice 🙂

I clicked so fast! Thank you for breaking down the corsets.....I mean video. 💜💜💜💜💜💜

"but for now let's focus on the corsets II MEAN VIDEO" same girl, same😂

The whole thing with black swan and fl connecting reminded me that they are pretty similar musically too,how the ending of bs is basically the beginning of fl 🤯

0:35 "Let focus on the corset, I mean video" Such a mood!

another theorie I has regarding Jin's scene is that it shows him looking over the other members in the bangtan universe. There is seven reflections representing the seven members, but only the one in the middle behaves like a reflection should and turns around as Jin does, the other six are frozen and still looking at Jin... ...idk does this make sense?

Yoooo🔥🔥😳i got goosebumps when the part hoseok pointing his finger at his “otherself” in Fake Love n Black Swan😱 then part jungkookie shadow crouch same as Fake Love YOOOOOooo😭👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 thank you for this omg😍💜

Thank you for the explanation & analysis of the corsets-oops I mean Black Swan! As always I look forward to your theories cause I know you look deep into the research of each one you do. Borahae!!

Are you going to explain the album like you did persona? I’m curious to see how all the songs fit together through the overall narrative of the album.

Everything you've mentioned, I agree with. I knew they all share the same transformations, it’s why I didn’t mention it because it’s obvious in this mv and in their whole album. The dark sections of their white suits, I noticed that too. Did you notice the way Jimin was laying on the stage, it kind of looked similar to the way Jungkook was laying in the water in the MMA 2019 performance; also in dark clothes? (at 3:17 in mv) And then Jimin turns away from the camera after that. Also, I’m always thinking that whatever they are feeling I can see it in their eyes. They always know how to convey their emotions like this. "Eyes are windows to the soul" as they say. So it was actually shot in a Broadway Theater in LA :) Thank you for showing that this mv is also connected to Lights, Wings, and Fake Love. All of this is a part of BTS’ journey. Every time they come out with new music, it’s a part of them that they haven’t shown yet and it’s a part we haven’t seen or heard yet. In a way, they are showing us their souls. Just as Jung described his soul in the Red Book. BTS is showing us a part of themselves and most people don't even realize it yet. I feel like I have a connection to “Black Swan”. It’s one I can relate to from an artist's perspective. This song really made me think about my art and how I feel like I’ve lost some of that passion for something that defines me. My art (drawing/painting/animating, etc.) is very important to me, it’s a part of me. For a while, I felt like I was struggling to get out of this shadow. The negative emotions are usually stronger than the positive ones. So I know what BTS must be still going through or went through. It’s just a good feeling knowing that BTS has shown me that I can face the shadow, accept it, and move forward. This whole album made me feel there is still light even when the shadows are all-consuming. I wanted to add something that I feel is important to all of this as well. I also think it has to do with the subconscious mind. The subconscious mind is a data-bank for everything, which is not in your conscious mind. It stores your beliefs, your previous experiences, your memories, your skills. Everything that you have seen, done, or thought is also there. It is also your guidance system. I was thinking that BTS has so many positive messages and that in a way gives us positive affirmations; such as loving yourself, following your dreams, and things like that. Only the thoughts that are conveyed with genuine emotions make it to the back of your mind. And only the thoughts that are backed up by a strong emotion stay there. BTS has shown their music with genuine emotion that’s why we can relate to them and it will always stay with us. This is why we are "still walking, walking with them." Also, their WINGS tour logo reminds me of a compass; in a way, they are guiding us. All paths connected to our true selves. By focusing your thoughts on uplifting ideas, your subconscious will begin to implement positive patterns in your way of thinking and your outlook on life. BTS has helped with all of this too; without us actually realizing it. Your subconscious has been working to establish those behavior patterns in the background long before you’ll ever notice such feelings. BTS gives us positive feelings with their music and I think we need more of that positive energy. Bookish Theories thank you for your analysis. It’s always well thought out :)

I’m Blown away! This is one the reasons I love #BTS! The story behind their songs and all are brilliant! Of course the reason I love all your theories too @Bookish Theories! You explained and connected them well. You never fail to amaze me, always! Thank you so much!

OMG....."also Corsets" hahaha still im here for ur mind

So interesting, you always point out things I missed. For instance, I didn't know the symbolic importance of a theater as it relates to dreams. I just thought they chose to shoot the video inside the old theater because it looked amazing. Which it does...but thank you for pointing out the significance of it. It is magnificent, and I think it's great BTS chose to introduce it to us. I took some time online and looked it up at the website, where there are lots of photos. If I ever am in LA would love to visit there. I am in the Midwestern U.S. and have had the opportunity to see two old theaters that have been preserved and are still used for live shows. Neither of them as grand as the LA Theater, but still beautiful. So I am grateful to BTS for showing it to us, they are always doing such wonderful things for us. And thank you to Bookish Theories for another informative and fascinating (and fun) video!

Thankyou for the video 💜💜 So.. I realise that all are representing the same person, but I believe there's a reason why Jimin is chosen to represent the wings and the black swan, If you look into the album, right after black swan it's Jimin's solo filter, where he sounds seductive and flirty as if his shadow is speaking and the lines say that he'll become anything to please army so that army will always choose him (Genie or alladin) , which might be his darker side in reality itself. The problem arises when you compare it with other solos, all the solos end in a way where the members accept and fight the issue ( take jk, jin or tae)... But jimin is the only one who doesn't end the song with closure. Maybe Jimin doesn't feel he's overcome his darker parts yet? I can't judge their feelings, I don't even know them but this hit me a little when I heard the album... Just my opinion 💜

I was waiting for this! I’m so excited. Edit from after watching SO GOOD, I literally could not tell you how many times I just went, “oooooh.” Or, “Oh my gosh yes.” I seriously love these videos!

As a ballet dancer I can see so many references. I think they're inspired by the movie black swan but mainly by classical ballet swan lake that the movie is based on. First of all they're dancing on a stage in some sort of opera/ballet theatre. They're talking about the two different personas, white swan and the black swan. Yoongi is talking about how if he stops getting that adrenaline kick when they do shows/perfom it would be his first death. People sometimes say that dancers die twice, and their first death is when they stop dancing or retire.

OMG! You are my absolute favorite! I've followed and watched many reactors explain theories but you are the only one who is on point every single time. You just don't see the lyrics, music, and visuals you actually relate it to everything. Every BTS video of yours I've watched it. YOU ARE DEFINITELY A GENIUS! HOW CAN YOU RESEARCH ALL OF THAT? Are you a literature major? THIS IS MIND BLOWN! I just know there's something in BTS new MV of 'Black Swan' but can't pinpoint it. I am so glad you did this. I can't wait for more of your videos.

Even before I didn’t know the lyrics or anything about this song it so incredibly made me sad. Their performance, visual, dance everything is so sad.. now I understand better, thanks 🙏🏻

God....These theories are making me more more hungry for bts songs...

"Please behave" cracked me up in the middle of trying to focus pleasee😂😭

Only one thing I want to point out: the whole metaphor of the black and white swan is not influenced by a movie. It is about the SWAN LAKE, the ballet composed by Tchaikovsky. However, thank you for your explanation. I came here because Armys recomended and I agree, you're really good. You gained a new subscriber.

At this point they are not artists anymore They have become the ART itself....

"when Yoongi takes the stage" *Kitten GIFs appear* 3:50

Thank You Bookish Theories. "one is seven and seven is one". ....Different personality mold into one group.

I admire people like you who are sooooo clever. I wish I had a good brain.

9:27 MIND BLOWN AGAIN girl i cried multiple times damn

Another great explanation, as always... I really love these videos. Thank you so much for your amazing insights and all the hard work you put into making these videos!

WOWWWW OMGGG!! the whole fake love/black swan hobi verse part was soo good!! I would have never seen the connection in the movements and the meaning behind it.

The video didn't even start and I hit the the thumbs up

"But for now, let's focus on the corsets- I MEAN VIDEO" SAME GIRL SAME 😳👌💜🔥

Wooooow, this is so wonderful! Thanks for the amazing content

I’m mind blown when you started talking about it has something to do with boy with luv…

I will not stop saying that you are amazing and I can not wait for your next analysis

5:39 - gradual descent of their unconcious and shadow - and I think chapter 2 is a continuation of this

Bookish Theories you are the best, thanks for this. Love from Mexico ❤🇲🇽💜

I really focus on their corset Thankyou 💜💜💜

This is an amzing explanation! Thank you sooo much. I'm way to dumb to know any of this so it's people like you that help me understand bts' art and music, so thank you sooo much! gonna binge all your bts videos.... but over time lol

OMG this video just blew my mind. Its just incredible how you made it a thread of events showing gradual progression. It made a lot of sense. Just wow.

You’re a literal genius!!! My simple mind could NEVER 😩

Thank you so much for the insights you provide into the BS MV. Love the detailed explanation and your humour. The "But for now let's focus on the corsets...I mean video" part just killed me 😂

Bts are so deep

As usual, thank you for the video. I really love your small clips of humor.

LMAO at the corsets coming out of nowhere, twice! =D As always, a very good explanation and analysis from the one and only Bookish Theorist. Sincerely, a loyal fan of yours

Okay I died from the information and the Visuals...like OMG!!! I understand much better now great video...❤️

corset lmao 🤣🤣 🤣 i love you bookish you saw what i saw 😂😂😂

I love your theories and even more your funny pullout ! Non sapevo fossi italiana, io sono Veneta 🇮🇹 ciao!

Love the theory... hoping it is what is intended ... Carl Yung’s theories are the best and to have my favorite music being about those theories in some way is very cool. Will keep listening to your BTS theories - fascinating!

Wow, to get the connection between JK's shadow at the very end of Black Swan and JK himself crouching in Fake Love, it takes a really excellent power of observation! Your video are incredibly interesting, you can tell that there's a lot of effort behind their realization! Very, VERY well done :-)

I love BTS, because their message has a lot to do with early Gnostic teachings. 💜

Jin: looking handsome as always Bookish Theories: oOf 🏹❤️

Omg.. I'm shocked😱 thank you

This is so interesting and you even make it more amusing. Love your humour XD KEEP IT UP!

You always come through... Thank you!

For once, I can actually say, I got the message of the video without your explanation, BUT, it's thanks to your other Black Swan video, so thank you so much for your work!!! I appreciate it greatly.

Thank u so much for making this videos. I love the way you analyze everything. How you focus not only in the visuals, but in the lyrics and their concept as a whole.

Is here! I'm so happy to see this😊

"Right off the bat"!!! 💜

I have to say that You're THE BEST! Such a genius! Thank you again for your videos!1!

Jungkook's shadow dissapearing is similar to him crouching down in fake love.... WHAT.THE.FUCK.I'M.MIND.BLOWN.O.M.G.

You are so talented

incredible analysis.

Great analysis

I always look forward to tour explanations.

Thanks for the great explanation!!!

Wow, just wow. What did I just watch? I don’t know what else to say. The mv is so ascetically pleasing to watch, they filmed in a beautiful theatre and a dance studio. Where is this place, where did they film this? Even that staircase looks like it’s a part of their concept, with that navy blue color at 1:14 (in the mv) 🤍🖤🤭 We know what the shadows represent now. These are just things I observed while watching the mv a few days ago :) At the beginning it was Jungkook is in a white suit singing and Namjoon rapping in both the light and dark suit, but I also noticed that a lot of the scenes are when they were in the white suits they were dancing and in the darker suits they were singing or rapping. Also, with what they’re wearing the white suits with the dark sections peeking out or those dark feathers on Jimin’s coat. I love the gradient on Jungkook’s sleeves and Hoseok’s lower parts of his coat on that white suit. Jimin with the feather texture on his white suit coat. Their Corsets are nice too. It’s even in the way they’re dressed in the mv. The painting at 0:35 in the mv, in the middle of the painting there’s an arch; it looks like The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, Arch of Titus, Arch of Septimius Severus, or the Arch of Constantine. At 2:16 Yoongi is a lot closer to it and his shadow. What is this painting?? (it looks amazing) Their shadows in the background looked interesting. The camera angled up made those shadows/black swan look taller (the parts with Taehyung singing and Hobi rapping). Yoongi’s shadow looked like it was a puppet with those movements, the shadow looks like Jimin dancing or it could be Jungkook. I really think it's Jimin dancing as mostly everyone's shadow. Jimin is dancing again and it is amazing and looked so beautiful 🥺 The part with Jimin and those wings is so amazing looking, that animation of the wing movement is nice. Jin in front of mirrors again (since the WINGS era lol). Jungkook at 2:56-2:58 (in mv), those slow movement’s looked so elegant and soft like a swan. The ending of the mv with Jungkook, the shadow fades down; like it’s just there at the surface. Jung did not believe the Shadow to be without purpose or merit; he felt that “where there is light, there must also be shadow”-which is to say that the Shadow has an important role to play in balancing the overall psyche. Without a well-developed shadow side, a person can easily become shallow and extremely preoccupied with the opinions of others, a walking Persona. Just as conflict is necessary to advance the plot of any good novel, light and dark are necessary to our personal growth. If you're interested read more about it here: journalpsyche.org/jungian-model-psyche/

My most awaited analysis... You always have a way with words and you always have just the right explanation... Kudos...

I REALLY REALLY LOVE YOUR ANALYSIS could you please do libido by OnlyOneOf. Thank you again for your hard work

You have such a nice and smooth voice, it makes my day😊

Thanks so much for explaining! You're the best theorist ever!

I always enjoy 😊 your theorist. Thank you so much ☺️

Thank you so much for sharing your amazing explanations. Please take care. Prayers going your way, and for all of Italy and the world. Bless you!

That was easy to understand the video 🤗♥️ Thanks 😍

Amazing! Thank you!!

a late comment but wow thank you! i've spend some effort reading into this MV given it's my favourite and one of my favourite BTS songs, your small connections to Fake Love kinda blew my mind

All I can say... mind-blowing Bookish THEORIES your the best...❤️❤️❤️

You satisfy me every time with your explanations ♥️👏🏻👏🏻

you are the best

I used to watch other theories videos but after you I can't even stand them in my recs list

I also noticed that the shadows are dissociated only with Suga and RM who represented previously he persona and the shadow.. While J-hope as the ego is the one lecturing them: I saw myself.

When i see your videos everything seems so obvious because it always makes so much sense...and i feel sooo dumb for not thinking if that before😅😅

Love the analysis as always!!

idk if someone has already tell you this but: very good videos, i mean it, it's pretty obvious that you work hard on them, thank you

Omg u are amazing!

Loved it. Thank you so much. 💜

Wow connecting to fake love, marvelous.. 🤩

"Junggook and his corset move on" 🥺🤣

I love your theories!!! 💜

9:18 thiiiis

Oh my oh my - I absolutely loved your little side comments and the gifs at lower left. JK's magnified mouth always cracked me up but added here at 3:34 it is pure comic gold!!!!!

Tq for this explanation.... I really appreciate it 💜💜💜💜

omg! I'm so mazed with all the methapors here, symbolism...all their MV's are interconnected... well thought off, nobody does that in the music industry...Bighit is never lazy, always putting out the best body of work that they could produce out there...that's why they are too good to be ignored by the world audience... keep it up! God bless u Bighit! and ovcorz my good boyzzz, BTS!

Thank you!