Last January 17, BTS released the art film for “Black Swan”, one of the singles included in their upcoming Map of the Soul: 7. The art film featured the Slovenian dance group MN Dance Company performing a contemporary dance that beautifully expresses the lyrics of the song. The ARMY was so enthralled by both the song and the dance itself that it trended worldwide on Twitter, was featured on various news articles, and gained millions of views in less than 24 hours.
One thing that is notable from the art film is the quote used in the beginning.
“A dancer dies twice — once when they stop dancing, and this first death is the more painful.”
This saying is from the American contemporary dancer and choreographer, Martha Graham.
The question is, who exactly is Martha Graham?
Martha Graham was a popular contemporary dancer who was sometimes referred to as the “Picasso of Dance” as her contributions to the world of contemporary dance are deemed equivalent to Picasso’s contribution to visual arts. She was also named “Dancer of the Century” by Time Magazine. She coined the Graham technique which reshaped contemporary dance and it is still taught worldwide.
According to Melon, the motif of “Black Swan” centralized on Martha Graham’s quote which was mentioned above. MelOn added that “Black Swan” elaborates on BTS’ fear of losing passion for music, the way a dancer dies the first time they stop dancing. BTS elaborates that their “first death” would be when they would stop making music.
Most ARMY may not know it, but BTS and Martha Graham have similarities apart from their passion for their art.
First is mythology. BTS is known to feature Greek and Korean mythology in their songs and music videos (Borasaek Vision further explores this topic in Bangtan & Mythology). In Martha Graham’s 70-year long dance career, she created ballets inspired by Greek mythology such as Clytemnestra.
BTS’ Map of the Soul: Persona also featured Greek mythology, as prominently seen in their song “Dionysus.” “Blood, Sweat, and Tears” also has Greek mythology references in its music video. “Idol,” on the other hand, showcased a number of Korean folklore references through its lyrics, choreography, and music video.
Another similarity that BTS and Martha Graham both share is their love for collaboration. Martha Graham was known to collaborate with artists such as sculptors, composers, and fashion designers. BTS has also collaborated with various artists, but they are taking collaboration to the next level through CONNECT, BTS, letting them collaborate with various artists around the globe.
One thing to also point out about “Black Swan” - BTS’ choreography for the song alludes to contemporary and ballet dance - the very expertise of Martha Graham.
ARMYs all over the world admire the diversity of dance moves that BTS offer, the enthusiasm they have in creating art with other people, and the intention to incorporate insights such as mythology in their work. Martha Graham also shares the same characteristics, which is also another reason why the usage of her quote in the film is very appropriate. The art film not only recommends the dancers in the video but also recommends the very person who became their inspiration in writing the song.
Just like how Martha Graham became a legacy in contemporary dance, BTS are already legends in their own way. While they may fear their first death, one thing is for certain - ARMY will always be by their side.
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Written By: Euni
Edit By: Mheer