Meaning of ”Color”: A Comprehensive Color Guide Book by Frank Ocean

The song "Color" by Frank Ocean takes listeners on a journey into the world of colors, exploring their significance, symbolism, and the impact they have on our lives. Through a comprehensive color guide book, Ocean weaves a fascinating tale that goes far beyond the surface of mere pigments. Let's dive into the unexpected and imaginative themes hidden within the standout lyrics of this intriguing song.Starting with the overall theme, it becomes evident that Ocean is using colors as a metaphor for the different aspects of life. Each color mentioned represents a specific characteristic or emotion, ultimately illustrating the complex and diverse nature of human existence.The lyrics begin with an introduction to the artist's commitment to a strict color code in the studio. This sets the stage for the underlying message of the song, emphasizing the importance of adhering to a chosen path or style in one's life. The color code represents a sense of discipline, consistency, and artistic integrity.The first standout lyric is "Green." Here, Ocean explores the color green and its representation of stability, growth, and prosperity. The specific shade of olive drab, OD 7, exemplifies these qualities, serving as a reminder of the studio's determination to evolve and thrive.Moving on, the mention of yellow brings to light themes of positivity, brightness, and optimism. McDonald's Yellow and Kodak Yellow symbolize the powerful impact that colors can have on our emotions. They remind us to embrace the vibrant moments and find joy even in the mundane aspects of life.The next color, red, introduces themes of passion, intensity, and desire. The brilliant red hue of the Impervex Latex Enamel High Gloss signifies the importance of embracing our deepest emotions and allowing ourselves to be fully immersed in the experiences that ignite our souls.White, as mentioned in the lyrics, represents purity, innocence, and neutrality. While the Flat Finish Decorators White portrays a traditional sense of cleanliness, the alternative native whites reflect the complexity of human nature. They challenge the idea that there is only one right way to perceive purity, reminding us that individual perspectives shape our understanding of the world.Black, contrasting with the previous theme, delves into darkness, mystery, and depth. The Flat and Glossy variations of black highlight the duality within ourselves – the light and the shadows that coexist within. It encourages us to accept and embrace all aspects of who we are, both the visible and the hidden.The absence of orange paints in the studio, except for emergencies, symbolizes rarity and the need for balance in life. Orange draws attention and stands out from the usual, reminding us to appreciate the extraordinary moments when they arise. However, it also serves as a caution against excessive attention-seeking behavior.Then we come across an unexpected and imaginative theme linked to the forbidden color purple. The strong statement that the color purple is punishable by death suggests that it represents rebellion, nonconformity, and creativity. It serves as a reminder that embracing individuality can come at a price but can also lead to significant personal growth and societal change.Blue, associated with NASA and the Benjamin Moore Impervex Latex paint, evokes a sense of achievement, ambition, and exploration. This shade reflects the lofty goals that fuel our dreams and the determination to reach for the stars. It represents the longing for something greater and the quest for knowledge.As the lyrics progress, Ocean also touches on the limitations of standardized color systems, such as Pantone. This criticism expands into a larger theme of societal restrictions and the need to break free from conformity. The reference to Saturn cars being limited to teal and maroon implies the oppressive influence of committees and institutions on creativity and self-expression.Ultimately, the song "Color" presents a rich tapestry of emotions, ideas, and perspectives associated with each hue. It encourages listeners to reflect on the significance of color in their own lives, urging them to embrace the full spectrum of experiences and emotions. By exploring the depths of color symbolism, Frank Ocean invites us to see the world through a kaleidoscope of possibilities and to embrace the beauty that lies within every shade.