Meaning of Lights by Frank Ocean

In Frank Ocean's song "Lights," the overall theme centers around love and the fear of being exposed in the spotlight. The lyrics of this song tackle the complexities of relationships and the desire to keep them hidden from judgment. Let's dive into some of the standout lyrics and explore the unexpected themes they bring forth.The opening lyrics, "Donald Trump said buy an apartment with her, buying an apartment with ya," may seem strange at first, but they set the tone for the underlying theme of stability and security. It suggests that love requires commitment and investment, not just emotionally, but also in material wealth. The idea of purchasing an apartment together symbolizes the desire for a long-term, stable relationship.Moving on, the line "Best friend said I ought to wife you today, like jumping over the broom, the white dress and all, yup the rice and all" introduces the concept of societal expectations and the pressure to conform to traditional marriage norms. It explores the theme of external influences and the struggle to reconcile personal desires with societal expectations.The chorus, "But the lights are gonna be on us, that’s the reason why I kept this love in the dark," reveals the fear of exposure and scrutiny that comes with being in the spotlight. It delves into the theme of privacy and the need to shield one's relationship from external judgment or interference. This fear reflects the vulnerability and insecurity individuals can experience when their love is under public scrutiny.Further into the song, the lyrics "Your father really likes me, he calls me son, your brother, I think he hates me, but you say that's how you know it's right" explore the complex dynamics within a partner's family. These lyrics introduce the theme of acceptance and the search for validation from loved ones. They highlight the internal conflicts and doubts that can arise when familial approval is lacking, and the importance of a partner's reassurance in navigating these challenges.As we enter the bridge, the lyrics "It’s strobing, baby, and they're burning baby, but don’t worry baby, just stay close to me" introduce a metaphorical interpretation of the lights. Here, the lights symbolize not only the public scrutiny but also the vibrant and chaotic energy that comes with being in the spotlight. The theme of protection arises, emphasizing the need for unity and support in the face of external pressure. It suggests that staying close to one another can help alleviate the stress and anxiety caused by the constant glare of attention.In the final chorus, the repeated line "Let 'em know them lights will never turn off" reinforces the persistence and permanence of the spotlight. It acknowledges that, regardless of the desire for privacy, the lights will always shine. This theme emphasizes the perpetuity of public judgment and the need to accept and navigate it rather than trying to avoid it altogether.Overall, "Lights" deals with themes of commitment, societal expectations, privacy, acceptance, protection, and the resilience required to maintain a relationship under public scrutiny. Frank Ocean's introspective lyrics provide a rich exploration of the emotional complexities inherent in love and the challenges faced when seeking validation while trying to preserve one's privacy.By considering these unexpected and imaginative themes, we gain a deeper understanding of the song's underlying message and the universal struggles faced by individuals navigating the intersection of love and fame in the modern world.