WARNING: This article contains major SPOILERS for Squid Game Season 2, Episode 1.
Squid Game Season 2, Episode 1: An Unexpected Focus on the Salesman
The debut episode of Squid Game Season 2 culminates in a tense face-off as Gi-hun and the enigmatic Salesman engage in a game of Russian Roulette. The poignant operatic piece “Time to Say Goodbye,” performed by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, plays hauntingly in the background. This choice to spotlight Gong Yoo’s character, the Salesman, surprised many fans; however, it ultimately proved to be a fitting decision. Having left a lasting impression in Season 1, the Salesman finally takes center stage, allowing him to shine in a pivotal moment of the series.
The Significance of “Time to Say Goodbye”Before the Game
Understanding the Impact of “Time to Say Goodbye”
As the momentous game approaches, the Salesman selects “Time to Say Goodbye” on his phone, a renowned adaptation of Andrea Bocelli’s “Con te partirò,”featuring the exquisite vocals of Sarah Brightman. Since its release in 1996, this powerful ballad has eclipsed its original Italian version from 1995 in popularity, becoming one of the most recognizable songs globally. The decision to play this particular track as he prepares for a high-stakes confrontation with Gi-hun speaks volumes about the Salesman’s character and reveals his fearless attitude toward mortality.
The irony inherent in playing a song titled “Time to Say Goodbye” right before a game of Russian Roulette does not escape the Salesman. His intent appears to be crafting an elegant yet self-aware atmosphere as he engages in this life-or-death scenario. Throughout his career as a recruiter for the Squid Games’ organizers, he has embraced a bleak philosophy—believing that the suffering of those forced to compete in these deadly games is not only fair, but part of the natural order. This perspective explains the Salesman’s fearlessness in the face of potential death, using the song to playfully taunt Gi-hun in moments of high tension.
Diving Deeper: How “Time to Say Goodbye”Enriches the Scene
Setting the Right Atmosphere for an Intense Duel
While the Salesman likely did not intend to embody the song’s literal meaning, the selection of “Time to Say Goodbye” effectively amplifies the emotional stakes in one of Season 2’s most electrifying sequences. Despite his limited screen time, Gong Yoo’s return has captivated fans, and he deserves to exit with a particularly remarkable scene. The use of this iconic melody during a tense Russian Roulette face-off not only accentuates the drama but also solidifies the moment as a memorable highlight of Squid Game Season 2, Episode 1.
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