In Squid Game season 2, episode 1, the Salesman (played by Gong Yoo) plays “Time to Say Goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman during a tense moment of Russian Roulette with Gi-hun.
This choice of song is both symbolic and ironic, adding layers to the character and the scene.
Symbolism of the Song
“Time to Say Goodbye” is a version of Bocelli’s “Con te partirò”, released in 1996. The song is about bidding farewell to something or someone, often with a sense of nostalgia and finality.
The Salesman’s decision to play this song before engaging in a deadly game is a clear reflection of his mindset: he is not afraid of death. He embraces the idea of departure, symbolizing his indifference to the potential end of his life.
This also highlights his belief in the fairness of the Squid Games, where death is simply a part of the process.
Setting the Tone for the Game
The choice of “Time to Say Goodbye” sets a chilling and almost elegant tone for the Russian Roulette game.
While the game itself is intense and life-threatening, the song creates a surreal atmosphere, making the moment feel more like a final farewell rather than a violent contest.
The irony of playing a song about saying goodbye before a game of life or death enhances the scene’s dramatic tension, emphasizing the Salesman’s nonchalance toward his fate.
The Salesman’s Character
The Salesman, who had been recruiting players for the games, is a character who has long accepted the cruelty and inevitability of the Squid Games.
By playing this song, he not only demonstrates his acceptance of death but also adds a touch of dark humor, as if mocking the gravity of the situation.
His calm demeanor and choice of music contrast with Gi-hun’s desperation, making the moment all the more intense.
In essence, “Time to Say Goodbye” serves as a perfect soundtrack for the Salesman’s final moments, encapsulating his character’s philosophy and setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation with Gi-hun.
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