Meaning of New Slaves by Frank Ocean

The Frank Ocean song, "New Slaves," carries a powerful and thought-provoking message that delves deep into themes of racism, consumerism, and personal empowerment. It emerges as a social commentary and challenges the norms of society. Let's delve into the standout lyrics and explore the imaginative themes they help develop.The opening verse, delivered by Kanye West, reflects on the history of racism and the enduring effects it has had on society. The line, "Clean water was only served to the fairer skin," highlights the injustices faced by those who were discriminated against solely based on the color of their skin. This highlights the theme of systemic racism, which persists to this day, albeit in different forms.The refrain, "You see it's leaders and it's followers, but I'd rather be a dick than a swallower," raises a bold and unexpected theme of personal empowerment. It suggests that it is better to assert oneself and stand up against oppressors than to submissive and passive. It promotes the idea of taking charge of one's destiny and not being content with status quo.Moving on to Kanye West's verse, he utilizes powerful imagery of blood on the leaves, symbolizing the historical and ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities. This lyric helps develop the theme of systemic oppression and serves as a reminder that these struggles persist and need to be confronted.The line, "Fuck you and your corporation, y'all niggas can't control me," embodies a rebellious sentiment against the capitalist consumerist culture. It criticizes the notion that material possessions and wealth can dictate one's worth. This lyric contributes to the theme of rejecting societal pressures and definitions of success that are often centered around material wealth.Furthermore, the lyrics, "They tryna lock niggas up, they tryna make new slaves," touch on the issue of mass incarceration within the prison-industrial complex. It sheds light on the profit-driven motives behind the criminal justice system and the modern form of slavery it perpetuates. This leads to the development of the theme of institutionalized oppression and the need to dismantle systems that perpetuate inequality.Finally, the outro lyrics, which are in Hungarian (and translated), add an unexpected layer to the song. The translated lyrics speak of the sun growing tired and the dark causing pain to people. This symbolizes the fatigue and suffering brought upon by societal injustices. It reinforces the theme of resistance and the necessity to challenge these oppressive systems to bring about change.Overall, "New Slaves" is an evocative and politically charged song that engages with various profound themes. From racism to personal empowerment to consumerism, each lyric helps contribute to a broader understanding of the song's message. By exploring these unexpected and imaginative themes, the song encourages listeners to critically examine societal norms and strive for a more equitable future.