The Hong-ik spirit, the founding spirit of Korea, is a connecting force that permeates all aspects of existence. The core belief behind it is "benefiting oneself, people and humanity." Essentially, it is a prayer of peace.
The song Paradise by rock group 311 communicates a similar theme, as singers Nick Hexum and S.A. Martinez sing about the importance of karma. They believe that each action will be returned in kind, emphasizing the need for people to live in harmony with each other.
"Everything you do it comes back to you / Whatever it may be / If it isn't one thing rest assured that something / Will come back and pay you for your deed," Hexum sings. "A shortcut's a self defeating means, if you cannot do it clean / You'll never reach your reward."
The relaxed and beautiful harmonies of Martinez and Hexum further highlights the theme of unity, while the alternative heavy and gentle guitar riffs give a feeling of the ups and downs of life.
Paradise was released on 311's first studio album, Music, in 1993. It was certified Gold in 1999 and received 4.5 out of 5 stars from AllMusic.com.
